Abba Yusuf to Tinubu: Reopen land borders, allow importation of food

Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano, has urged President Bola Tinubu to open land borders to enhance food security in the country.

Yusuf spoke on Monday during a courtsey visit by Adewale Adeniyi, comptroller-general of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), in Kano.

Yusuf, who lamented the harsh economic condition being experienced by Nigerians, said reopening of the borders would check inflation and cut prices of food items.

“We wish to appreciate the president’s intervention in the ongoing national food initiative,” Yusuf said.

“He considers Kano as the host for the initiative ahead of its planned launch believing that the programme will cushion the effects of food scarcity if implemented.

“Another immediate intervention that can make food available and affordable to our population is for the federal government to consider the reopening of the borders and allow free importation of commodities.”

While noting the need to reopen the borders, Yusuf lauded NCS’ food distribution scheme, and called for proactive measures to guard against diversion of the commodities.

The governor pledged continued support to the service to enable it to discharge its mandate effectively.

Earlier, Adeniyi called for effective synergy between Customs and the Kano community, adding that NCS was committed to deeper collaboration and mutual understanding.

He pledged to implement policies aimed at refining business processes and fostering engagement with stakeholders.