By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbl
In a bid to address the challenges hindering trade and investment in Kebbi State, the Nigeria Shippers Council has responded swiftly to grievances registered by the state government. Led by the Regional Head of Shippers Council, Dr. Karimatu Othman, a delegation met with stakeholders at KIPA on December 9 for a crucial engagement.
During the meeting, stakeholders highlighted the need to open additional border entry points, as only one of the eight existing points is currently operational. They also emphasized the negative impact of unofficial extortion on exporters, which results in higher costs of goods.
In response, the Nigeria Shippers Council committed to reducing the number of checkpoints along international trade corridors. The Council also cautioned shippers that the extent of extortion reflects the quantum of informal trade across the border. Dr. Othman stressed the importance of formalizing business to mitigate unofficial extortion and justify the Council's intervention.
The Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) represented by State Coordinator Mohammed Sirajo Danalkali, argued that opening more border entries would be economically beneficial to the state. He cited the example of a single trader who exported $48 million worth of onions from Kebbi State to West Africa in one year.
To build on these insights, the Ministry of Commerce and KIPA will sustain sensitization efforts to increase the number of formal exporters in the state. They will also formally register 10% of registered exporters in collaboration with the NEPC. Furthermore, KIPA will establish an importers and exporters dialogue forum to continuously engage with stakeholders and find lasting solutions to trade and investment challenges in the state.
Ultimately, the Kebbi State government is committed to making the state an investment-friendly destination.
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Business