Nigeria defies Ghana; extends border closure to January 2020

Nigeria’s border closure which has irked Ghanaian traders will continue until January 2020, a memo from the government of Nigeria to border control personnel has announced.

The memo said the closure has achieved tremendous success.

“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,” it said.

This is despite the delegation from the government of Ghana to Nigeria to negotiate the reopening of the border.

Many Ghanaian traders are upset over the border closure complaining they are unable to cart their goods from Nigeria to Ghana.

Ghana’s deputy trade and foreign affairs ministers were in Nigeria for the negotiations while the impasse between GUTA and Nigerians in retailing in Ghana was ongoing.

“We cannot use one sector of our economy to fight Nigeria…it won’t work. As a matter of fact, we need each other to thrive. What is happening in Kumasi is very sad. As we speak I’m in Nigeria and we’re doing everything possible to get the border issue resolved.There are products manufactured in Ghana and sold on the Nigerian Market. This improves the forex position of our country

“Their economy is six times ours, why go fighting them? when you need to appeal for their support. I want GUTA to understand that whether they like it or not, we need other economies to support what we do here. I’m pleading with GUTA, just take your time and let’s find a way to resolve with the issue. They don’t need to go trading blows, if you trade blows you only get the bigger guys to outsmart you,” he told Morning Starr host Francis Abban.