Benin and Niger Reopen Border to Resume Trade After Nine Months

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SÉGBANA — Authorities from Benin and Niger have reopened their shared border post near Ségbana for trade after a closure lasting almost nine months.



According to Burkina Information Agency, this move comes as part of broader consultations between the two nations, signaling the restoration of the vital trade corridor that links Benin to Niger across the Niger River.



The Economic Community of West African States had implemented sanctions, including the closure of borders against Niger, following a military coup last year. These sanctions, although lifted by ECOWAS in February, had not immediately resulted in the reopening of the border, affecting the economic dynamics in the region. Notably, Benin had faced significant economic impacts due to the border closure, as the country plays a crucial role in facilitating Niger’s access to seaports.



Earlier in May, the Beninese government had imposed restrictions on oil tankers entering its national waters, affecting the operations of a newly launched oil pipeline connecting Niger to export terminals in the Gulf of Guinea. However, on May 15, Beninese authorities permitted a tanker, chartered by a Chinese company, to dock and load oil, marking the first utilization of this pipeline. It remains uncertain if the reopening of the border will also lead to a relaxation of restrictions on other tankers aiming to access Nigerien oil through Benin.