Allow Ghanaian traders stuck in Nigeria to move out — GUTA

President of GUTA, Dr. Joseph Obeng

In relation to the recent extension of the border closure by Nigeria to the end of January 2020, The President of Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA) Dr. Joseph Obeng is calling on Nigerian authorities to allow Ghanaian traders stuck inside Nigeria to leave with their products back to Ghana.

The extension which was approved by President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to deepen the woes of Ghanaian traders who have been pressuring the Akufo-Addo government to liaise with the Nigerian government to allow them get their goods into Nigeria.

But in an interview with Citi Business News, Dr. Obeng said GUTA’s primary concern is with the fate of Ghanaians who have their wares locked up inside Nigeria.

“They should give about one week so that traders can move out with their goods to their destinations in other West African countries. After that, they can close their borders for as long as they want.”

Nigeria extends its border closure to January 2020

Nigeria has extended the period for the closure of its frontiers to other countries till January 31, 2020.

The extension which was approved by its President, Muhammadu Buhari is said to be a result of the ‘overwhelming success’ the closure has chalked in the face of the country’s economy and security.

A memo dated November 1, 2019, and addressed to the Sector Coordinators of the Joint Border Operation Drill announced that;

“I am directed to inform you that it is observed that despite the overwhelming success of the operation, particularly the security and economic benefits to the nation, a few strategic objectives are yet to be achieved. Against this background, Mr. President has approved an extension of the exercise to January 31, 2020.”

Nigeria closed its borders in what it says is to stop the smuggling of products from its neighboring West African countries into Nigeria.

The action taken by Nigeria was to express its displeasure at the attitude of the Beninese authorities in order to elicit their cooperation.

The closure of the borders which started in August 2019 was expected to be in force for twenty-eight (28) days, however, it looks like the issues remain unresolved thus the initial continuous closure.

Find the full memo here

“I am directed to inform you that it is observed that despite the overwhelming success of the operation, particularly the security and economic benefits to the nation, a few strategic objectives are yet to be achieved.

Against this background, Mr President has approved an extension of the exercise to January 31, 2020.

Consequently, you are requested to convey the development to all personnel for their awareness and guidance.

Meanwhile, allowances for personnel sustenance and fuelling of vehicles for the period of extension will be paid as soon as possible.

This is for your information and necessary action, please.”