In a significant development for regional trade, the Nigeria Customs Service and the Benin Republic Customs Administration have officially launched SIGMAT (Système Interconnecté de Gestion des Marchandises en Transit) connectivity at the Seme-Kraoke Joint Border Post. This initiative aims to enhance trade facilitation and streamline customs procedures between the two nations.
The event was attended by Benin Republic Customs Administration head, Adidjatou Zanouvi, and Nigeria Customs Comptroller-General, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi. Addressing the gathering, Zanouvi emphasized the importance of this deployment, stating, “What we are witnessing today is a milestone in our joint efforts. SIGMAT represents our commitment to strengthening ties and simplifying procedures at the border.”
The SIGMAT project is part of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) initiative designed to create a digital network for customs authorities across member states. This interconnected system will allow for efficient information sharing regarding goods in transit, ultimately reducing delays and enhancing trade between countries.
Comptroller-General Adeniyi expressed optimism about the project, highlighting its potential to foster capacity-building programs for stakeholders involved in cross-border trade. He stated, “We will continue to collaborate with the ECOWAS SIGMAT committee to share our observations and experiences, as we work towards enhancing trade facilitation between Nigeria and Benin.”
The launch of SIGMAT connectivity marks a pivotal step forward in interconnecting businesses for goods and services, positioning both countries to benefit from improved trade efficiency and economic collaboration.
