President Muhammadu Buhari and president Patrice Talon of the republic of Benin have agreed to form a joint committee to combat smuggling.
The agreement took place at the presidential Abuja when President Muhammadu Buhari hosted president Patrice Talon of The republic of Benin.
In a statement signed by the special adviser to the president on media and publicity Femi Adesina said also to be consulted in the workings of the committee is Niger Republic, which is believed to be a transit point in the concentric circle of smuggling of commodities, particularly rice, into Nigeria.
The statement also states that President Buhari told his guest that smuggled parboiled rice still finds its way into the country, thus vitiating the efforts of government, and discouraging farmers.
He said activities of smugglers are hindering Nigeria’s quest for self-sufficiency, particularly in rice production.
The President Buhari also welcomed the idea of a rail network to link Nigeria, Benin Republic, Niger Republic, and some other countries, saying “it is valuable economically, and would be subjected to further comprehensive study.
President Talon of the republic of Benin said smuggling affects both Nigeria and his country negatively, and also constitutes a threat to the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
He also submitted that the proposed rail network between the countries would boost economic development.
