The European Union (EU) on Tuesday, April 16 proposed the ‘Gateway Corridor’ initiative in order to improve the law enforcement and trade facilitation at the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Headquarters in Abuja.
According to EU representatives, Louis Jacques Blondiau and Thierry Thimon, the initiative will cover ten (10) countries, including Nigeria, with the goal of curbing illicit activities on the borders and suppressing smuggling operations.
The leader of the group, Jacques stressed that the Getaway Corridor project encompasses the development of a road infrastructure network designed to serve as a gateway for combating anti-smuggling activities while promoting trade facilitation.
“Each participating country will designate a specific zone for the project’s execution, which will involve four key phases: identification, implementation, evaluation, and project ownership, ensuring alignment with local needs and priorities,” he explained.
During the meeting, the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, commended the EU’s initiative, acknowledging its potential to significantly improve the effectiveness of law enforcement efforts in Nigeria.
CGC Adewale assured the full support of the Nigeria Customs Service and other relevant agencies in ensuring the successful execution of the project.
He added: “The proposed Getaway Corridor project marks a significant step towards strengthening international cooperation in combating illicit flows and promoting trade security within the region. With the commitment of both the EU and Nigerian authorities, it is poised to make a meaningful impact in curbing illegal activities and fostering sustainable development.”
