Nigeria to Reopen Borders Soon for Commercial Activities - Lagos Rep

Sesi Whingah, the representative of Badagry Constituency in Nigeria's House of Representatives, revealed that Nigeria's borders will soon be reopened for commercial activities.

This development is expected to boost economic activities and alleviate the financial struggles faced by many Nigerians due to the border closures. Whingah made this announcement during a Badagry Stakeholders and Youth Engagement event held on August 31, 2024. He emphasized the government's commitment to enhancing internal revenue generation and improving the livelihoods of his constituents.

"The current administration will soon open borders for commercial activities; I know it is affecting us and our incomes. I know what my constituents are going through," he stated. Addressing local concerns, Whingah highlighted the issue of multiple checkpoints along the Lagos Badagry expressway, which have been a significant hindrance to development and tourism. He advocated for the use of technology to monitor the area, suggesting that "a single drone can secure and monitor this axis."

In addition to the border reopening, Whingah outlined several achievements and ongoing projects aimed at improving the infrastructure and quality of life in Badagry. He mentioned securing employment for 30 youths in federal agencies and facilitating National Identification Number (NIN) registration for over 70,000 individuals.

"This is a critical step in ensuring that our people are accounted for in the national database and can access the full benefits of citizenship," he noted. Whingah also discussed the repair of the Mowo-Ikoga road and the re-award of the uncompleted Gbaji-Owode-Apa expressway project, which will be captured in the new budget of 2025. "I can assure you that contractors will begin work on the road in the few weeks to come.

Though it is a Federal road, Lagos state has agreed to help us fix it," he assured. The event featured a panel of professionals who deliberated on various developmental issues and challenges facing Badagry. Prof. Henry Hunjo from Lagos State University highlighted Whingah's achievements and stressed the need for further development in the region.

Setonji Koshoedo, Deputy National Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), proposed a collective approach to problem-solving, terming it a "Solution Revolution."

The engagement concluded with Whingah announcing an ICT programme for 1,000 youths, dubbed the "Badagry Tech Talents 1,000 Programme," aimed at training, empowering, and connecting young talents in the community.