Daud Olatunji
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has reiterated the role of trade in driving economic prosperity, using art as a strategic tool to foster cross-border collaboration between Nigeria and the Benin Republic.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that this was the focal point of the 4th edition of the Festival of Art for Economic Development, held in Idiroko, Ogun State on Wednesday, under the theme “Cross-Border Trade: What It Is and Why It Matters.”
The festival, which convened top government officials, traditional rulers, business leaders, and customs officers, emphasized the need for deeper economic ties and cultural exchanges to strengthen regional trade.
In his opening address, Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, the Customs Area Controller for Ogun I Area Command, stressed the transformative power of cross-border trade in expanding markets and fostering peaceful international relations.
He urged stakeholders to embrace the festival as a platform for advancing economic sustainability through trade and cultural diplomacy.
Delivering the keynote speech, Dr. Bonny Abisogun Botoku, Executive Producer of the festival, highlighted the crucial role of customs and border management in facilitating trade while ensuring national security.
He described cross-border commerce as the “lifeblood” of regional economies, fueling job creation, revenue growth, and business expansion.
He also commended Comptroller Shuaibu’s commitment to integrating trade facilitation with cultural development.
One of the key moments of the event was a presentation by Assistant Comptroller of Customs, C Amaweh psc+, who dissected the history, benefits, and challenges of cross-border trade.
He stressed the urgency of policy harmonization, technological advancements, and improved border security to curb informal trade, revenue losses, and illegal migration.
According to him, beyond discussions, the festival provided a dynamic showcase of artistic expressions reflecting the deep-rooted economic and cultural connections between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
Participants explored how art can serve as a catalyst for economic empowerment while emphasizing the importance of trade-friendly policies and regional investment opportunities.
Among the dignitaries present were Hon. Johnson Akohomeh Avoseh, Executive Chairman of Ipokia Local Government Area; Hon. Alhaja Maroufatou Falola, Deputy Mayor of Ifonyin Municipality; top Nigeria Customs Service officers; security agency representatives; senior government officials; Mr & Mrs Moses of Goge Africa; Barrister Botoku; and students from secondary and tertiary institutions.
The festival concluded with stakeholders reaffirming their commitment to promoting legal trade practices, enhancing economic integration, and leveraging artistic platforms to drive sustainable development.
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