In a major policy shift, the Federal Government of Nigeria fully reopened its land borders in 2022, ending years of partial closures that disrupted regional commerce and movement. This development not only symbolized a renewed commitment to regional integration under the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), but also aimed to repair economic ties strained by border restrictions imposed since 2019. By lifting the barriers, Nigeria signaled a readiness to reengage with its neighbors on matters of trade, security, and shared prosperity.
Background: The 2019 Border Closure and Its Ripple Effects
Nigeria first shut its land borders in August 2019 under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. The move, according to government officials, was designed to combat the smuggling of rice, arms, and other contraband goods, while encouraging local production and protecting Nigerian industries from unfair foreign competition—particularly in the agriculture sector.
At the time, the government justified the decision as necessary for national security and economic self-reliance. However, the closure sparked mixed reactions across the region. While some Nigerian farmers and local manufacturers reported increased patronage, many businesses, cross-border traders, and neighboring countries such as Benin, Niger, and Cameroon experienced significant economic downturns.
Trade within the ECOWAS bloc, already burdened by infrastructure deficits and customs inefficiencies, suffered even more. Transporters, small-scale merchants, and multinational suppliers faced increased costs, longer delays, and a breakdown of trust among regional partners.
Gradual Reopenings and Diplomatic Pressure
Following backlash from regional allies and criticism from the private sector, Nigeria began a phased reopening in late 2020 and 2021. Four major land borders—Seme (Lagos-Benin Republic), Illela (Sokoto-Niger Republic), Maigatari (Jigawa-Niger Republic), and Mfum (Cross River-Cameroon)—were reopened, albeit with restrictions still in place.
Despite these measures, the Nigerian economy and its regional partners continued to face disruptions. ECOWAS, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and the World Trade Organization (WTO) all urged Nigeria to ease restrictions and embrace free trade principles. Diplomats from neighboring states also engaged Nigeria in repeated negotiations, highlighting the damage caused to regional food supply chains and cross-border employment.
The pressure culminated in the full reopening of all land borders in 2022—an effort that was widely welcomed by economic stakeholders and international observers.
The 2022 Full Reopening: A Policy U-Turn With Economic Motivations
The full reopening of Nigeria’s borders in 2022 came as the country grappled with multiple economic challenges. Inflation, especially food inflation, was reaching unsustainable levels. The naira had weakened significantly against foreign currencies, and the informal economy—much of which relies on cross-border trade—was under strain.
Faced with these realities, Nigerian policymakers revised their stance. The reopening was framed not as a reversal of principles but as an evolution in strategy. Customs authorities were instructed to strengthen surveillance and scanning technology to combat smuggling without shutting out legitimate commerce.
Furthermore, Nigeria promised to collaborate with neighboring customs and immigration agencies to improve border security through intelligence sharing and joint task forces, rather than unilateral closures.
Impact on Trade and Transportation
Since the reopening, border markets in towns such as Seme, Idiroko, and Illela have seen a revival in activities. Truck convoys carrying agricultural products, textiles, electronics, and manufactured goods have resumed transit. Traders who were previously forced into costly sea freight alternatives are once again taking advantage of the faster and more affordable land routes.
Transport unions and freight logistics companies reported a significant increase in cross-border operations in the first quarter after the reopening. In particular, exports of Nigerian goods to Benin, Togo, and Ghana showed signs of recovery, and import volumes of raw materials from neighboring countries also surged.
Beyond trade, regional transportation networks—especially ECOWAS highway corridors—have also benefited. Buses and private vehicles transporting people across borders now face fewer delays and inspections, improving mobility for workers, students, and tourists.
Reaction From Stakeholders
Business groups such as the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) lauded the move as overdue but essential. The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) emphasized the importance of competitive policies and urged the government to complement the border reopening with infrastructural investments and regulatory reforms.
On the regional stage, ECOWAS leaders commended Nigeria’s decision. Benin and Niger, whose economies had suffered from the closures, expressed optimism that the reopening would mend strained ties and reinvigorate bilateral cooperation.
Civil society organizations, particularly those working with women in trade, also welcomed the decision. They pointed out that women constitute a large percentage of informal traders affected by the closures and that reopening the borders restored livelihoods to thousands of families.
Challenges That Remain
Despite the policy shift, challenges persist. Corruption at border posts remains a concern, with reports of extortion and bribery slowing the flow of goods. Customs delays, high tariffs, and policy inconsistencies continue to discourage small-scale traders.
Additionally, poor road infrastructure in many border communities hampers seamless transportation. Without sustained investment in border facilities, surveillance technologies, and customs modernization, the long-term benefits of the reopening may be undermined.
Smuggling, though harder to detect with reopened borders, still poses a threat to local producers. To address this, authorities have pledged to introduce e-customs systems and train border officials in best practices.
The Role of Regional Integration Frameworks
Nigeria’s border reopening aligns with broader continental objectives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). By removing trade barriers, Nigeria reinforces its leadership role within ECOWAS and affirms its support for pan-African economic integration.
However, experts warn that true integration requires more than open borders. Standardizing trade regulations, harmonizing tariffs, improving logistics, and enhancing dispute resolution mechanisms are necessary steps to fully unlock the region’s economic potential.
Conclusion: A Strategic Reengagement With West Africa
The 2022 reopening of Nigeria’s land borders marks a turning point in the country’s economic and diplomatic trajectory. By restoring trade routes and easing travel restrictions, Nigeria has taken a critical step toward rebuilding trust with its neighbors and strengthening regional cooperation.
While challenges remain, the reopening lays the foundation for a more inclusive and interconnected West Africa. Going forward, Nigeria’s ability to balance security with openness, and protection with partnership, will determine the lasting success of this policy shift.
