Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have solidified a new partnership to enhance cross-border trade and economic integration, marking a significant stride in West Africa’s regional cooperation. The two nations unveiled a joint trade framework during a high-level meeting in Cotonou, Benin, on Saturday, targeting streamlined logistics, reduced trade barriers, and job creation to bolster shared prosperity.
The agreement, negotiated by senior officials and customs leaders from both countries at Benin’s Ministry of Economy and Finance, builds on a preliminary pact signed earlier by Presidents Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and Patrice Talon of Benin. Nigerian Trade Minister Jumoke Oduwole hailed the deal as a “bold step forward” for regional economic strategy, emphasizing its potential to transform trade into a driver of inclusive growth. “This reflects our countries’ political will to forge a progressive relationship,” she stated, noting that four specialized working groups will focus on trade facilitation, enforcement, data integration, and infrastructure development.
Oduwole underscored the link between the framework and Nigeria’s broader ambition to evolve from a regional trade hub to a global advocate for equitable commerce. The collaboration also aligns with directives from Tinubu and Talon, who tasked technical teams with converting their earlier commitments into actionable policies after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the West African Economic Summit.
Adewale Adeniyi, Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, confirmed plans to finalize a formal MoU by early 2026, following two days of intensive technical discussions. He highlighted preemptive measures already underway, including identifying new trade corridors and synchronizing digital systems to ease transit for businesses. “We’re removing obstacles that stifle local enterprises, particularly SMEs,” Adeniyi said, noting that corridor-based solutions will address bureaucratic delays in cross-border movements.
The customs chief also acknowledged Benin’s support for Nigeria’s leadership bid at the World Customs Organization (WCO) Council meeting in Kinshasa, praising Benin Customs Director-General Adidjatou Hassan Zanouvi for her partnership.
As part of the initiative, delegations conducted joint inspections of the Cotonou Port and the Seme-Krake Border Post, critical nodes in regional trade, to assess modernization needs and reinforce commitments to efficient border management. These visits underscored efforts to harmonize port procedures and reduce logistical bottlenecks, a priority for both nations as they seek to amplify their influence in global trade networks.
The agreement signals a deepening of Nigeria-Benin ties amid broader regional economic challenges, including debt concerns and infrastructure gaps. By aligning customs operations and trade policies, the partners aim to unlock opportunities for small businesses while positioning West Africa as a more cohesive player in international markets.
