National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Abraham Amah
In a bid to tackle smuggling activities in the region, the European Union (EU) has put forth a proposal for the development of road infrastructure networks across specific zones in Nigeria and nine other neighbouring African countries. This initiative falls under the Gateway Corridor project, aimed at curbing illicit activities on borders and suppressing smuggling operations while promoting facilitation.
According a statement released by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) on their official social media account, EU representatives, led by Louis Jacques Blondiau, recently met with the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, to discuss the implementation of the Getaway Corridor project. The project is set to cover 10 countries, including Nigeria, with the goal of combating smuggling activities through the development of a road infrastructure network designed to serve as a gateway.
The operational framework of the Getaway Corridor project includes four key phases: identification, implementation, evaluation, and project ownership. Each participating African country will designate a specific zone for project execution, aligning with local needs and priorities.
In response to the proposal, Adeniyi expressed appreciation for the EU’s initiative, recognizing its potential to enhance law enforcement efforts in Nigeria significantly. He assured the Nigeria Customs Service’s full support, along with other relevant agencies, to ensure the successful execution of the project.
The Getaway Corridor project is seen as a crucial step towards strengthening international cooperation in combating illicit flows and promoting trade security within the region. With the joint commitment of the EU and Nigerian authorities, it is expected to have a positive impact on curbing illegal activities and fostering sustainable development in the region.
