Tag: Cotonou cars

Reps Oppose Ban On Vehicle Importation Through Land Borders

Reps Kick Against Ban On Vehicle Importation Through Land BordersThe House of Representatives has asked President Buhari to suspend the ban on importation of new and used cars through land borders.

The ban which was announced on December 5, 2016 by the Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) is due to take off from January 1, 2017.

The lawmakers, however, say the policy is too harsh as it would further worsen the economic situation of many Nigerians who are already groaning under the prevailing recession.

The decision of the lawmakers followed the adoption of a motion by Representative Abubakar Salami who noted that the percentage of Nigerians who can afford cars has reduced drastically following the decline in the value of naira, inflation and unemployment.

He said that the Federal government has not put in place alternative measures to ensure that Nigerians have access to cars, “since it is cheaper to buy cars from neighbouring countries and still generate revenue by ensuring that our borders are secured”.

“Some of those making these policies have failed to patronise the made-in-Nigeria goods, especially Nigerian Assembly vehicles which are in any case not affordable to over 80% of Nigerians who can only afford fairly used imported vehicles.

“The ban will cause more harm than good and it will certainly lead to the increase of smuggling,” he said.

Police Foil Robbery At Seme Border

Seme BorderSecurity operatives have foiled an attempted robbery at the Seme border between Nigeria and Benin Republic.

According to the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Mr Fatai Owoseni, who visited the scene of the encounter, the robbery was repelled following an intelligence report.

Mr Owoseni told journalists that the armed men had planned to raid the banks in the area but were stopped by the Nigerian Police in conjunction with men of the Nigeria Customs, Immigration, Army and Navy, as well as security personnel from Benin Republic.

The operation resulted in the recovery of 2,374 rounds of ammunition, explosives, and life jackets.

The Lagos Police chief praised the efforts of the security operatives, saying it is the outcome of an effective intelligence-led policing and community support.

Buhari Visits Benin Republic

Benin RepublicThe Nigerian President is not relenting in his efforts towards building the required coalition to effectively tackle the challenge of insurgency in Nigeria’s north-east.

Barely days after holding talks with his Cameroonian counterpart on areas of cooperation in the fight against the insurgents, including strengthening border security, President Muhammadu Buhari on Saturday paid a one-day visit to Benin Republic in continuation of the effort.

During his meeting with President Boni Yayi, coinciding with the anniversary of the country’s independence, President Buhari pledged to build on the success already achieved in creating a synergy among the Lake Chad Basin Commission members.