Throughout the year there have been different policies established in Nigeria that have made it’s citizens raise their eyebrows. From the RUGA saga, to the CBN forex ban for milk importation, the border closures, the CBN cashless policy and increased VAT.
All these got different reactions from citizens but the border closures seemed to be of greater effect, particularly because of the ban on food importation. Considering that most of the food eaten by Nigerians are imported this policy was a hard pill to swallow for many, especially when food prices skyrocketed.
However, in some twisted way, the whole thing just showed how much economical power Nigeria has been wielding without realizing it; presently, the border closures are greatly affecting businesses in the Sub-Saharan
Even with the issues of the border closures, the Jollof Road team crossed the Seme border in 15 minutes after getting searched by NDLEA officials often.
Nigeria, Giant of West Africa?
Apparently, businesses in other West African regions are complaining about how the full border closures by Nigeria has caused a drop in their revenue, seeing as most of their exportations are made to Nigeria.
According to Business Insider, even the Chief Executive Officer of Ghana National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GNCCI), Mark Badu Aboagye explained the negative impact the policy was creating on their country and how something needs to be done to change the status quo.
Who is the Border Closure Affecting?
In a time when Nigeria is lambasted for being weak in economical and political power across Africa, it is curious indeed that countries like Ghana, Benin Republic and Niger are begging for the borders to open once more so they can get their economy going as usual.
It is ironic that while many Nigerians are complaining about the present situation, other West African countries are being bitten hard by the border closures as well.
However, in the midst of the groanings, some Nigerians believe that this border closure is a way forward, if the government can finesse it perfectly.
