Niger imposes restrictions on Nigerian goods

The military authorities in the Republic of Niger have imposed new restrictions on goods coming from Nigeria, citing growing security concerns in the region.

The directive, issued by Colonel Mohamed Yacouba Siddo of the Customs Formalities Corporation, was shared on X by security analyst Brant Grant.

It requires that all goods from Nigeria—especially items classified as “miscellaneous goods”—be unloaded and thoroughly inspected at Niger’s entry points before proceeding further into the country.

“For security requirements, all goods originating from Nigeria, particularly so-called miscellaneous goods, must be unloaded and inspected at the entry offices before any transit formalities,” the circular stated.

It added that only goods accompanied by valid documentation from recognised ports of discharge would be allowed to reach their final destination.

Colonel Siddo urged strict compliance with the directive and instructed officers to report any challenges encountered during its implementation.

The move comes amid rising regional tensions following a failed coup attempt in the Republic of Benin on Sunday. It also coincides with claims by the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) that 11 Nigerian military personnel were arrested in Burkina Faso for allegedly violating its airspace.

The Nigerian Air Force has denied the allegation, clarifying that the aircraft involved made an emergency landing due to technical issues and did not breach any airspace regulations.