The Association of Nigerian Licensed Customs Agents (ANLCA) reports that over 2,000 trucks with goods are trapped at the Nigerian borders with neighbouring countries.
The National President, ANLCA, Mr Tony Nwabunike disclosed this during a media briefing held in Lagos.
According to him, the ongoing partial border closure had brought some gains to the country but there should be a review of the process for the benefit of legitimate importers.
“Six months into the Seme border closure which commenced on Aug. 20, 2019 and the Federal Government keeps saying that they will reopen the borders soon.
“The present situation of goods now at the Seme borders is very sad and something should be done to reduce the suffering of the importers of these goods,” Nwabunike said.
He noted that some of the goods are seen with maggots coming out from them, adding that the climate was also not good for them as they were under harsh weather.
Nwabunike said that the border could not be permanently closed, adding that ANLCA could not ascertain the amount lost but very huge amount was being wasted.
He urged government to do a quick review of the situation and allow dutiable goods from the affected neighbouring countries to pay duty and come in.
Nwabunike called for a human face approach which would save many businesses from dying and ameliorate the indebtedness that many genuine businessmen and women found themselves due to the policy.
He noted that the border closure which led to the usage of the ports led to port congestion due to the fact that the facilities at the port were not adequate for the huge traffic.
“Our members are besieging us at the secretariat with the numerous problems and professional issues they face due to the border closure and problems at the port.
“Some of the issues has to do with traffic gridlock due to bad access road, no scanners, multiple units of government agencies in and around the ports,” Nwabunike said.
He urged government to dredge the Calabar and Warri ports to ensure that the directive of the Nigerian Ports Authority to divert ships to the Eastern port would be successful.
Nwabunike also urged NPA to have a stakeholders meeting and consider using the alternative ports.
