Abidjan-Lagos Corridor: 200,000 Tonnes Move Yearly Despite High Levies
In spite of the substantial transit tax, the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor facilitates over 200,000 tons of cargo annually, according to The PUNCH.
Salami Nasiru Alasoadua, who oversees National and International Affairs as well as coordinates the Eastern Corridor for West African Cross Border Traders, revealed this information in an exclusive report provided to our correspondent.
Adaua emphasized the significance of establishing an operational weighbridge and tollgates on Nigeria’s portion of the corridor. This would ensure that transporters who fail to adhere to the axle load regulations face penalties.
He stated that the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor accounts for 90 percent of the merchandise volume within the Economic Community of West African States.
"As the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor handles over 200,000 tonnes of cargo annually, it’s crucial to have an operational weighing station and toll gates on the Nigerian section. This way, transporters who fail to comply with weight restrictions and regulations can face penalties. Protecting the road infrastructure necessitates this measure," he stated.
He expressed regret over the substantial transit tax levied on the Abidjan-Lagos Corridor, particularly within the territory of Benin, noting further that the scanning equipment at the borders has remained non-functional since installation.
"The inability of the weighbridge to function properly has resulted in makeshift methods for estimating the weight of goods, which does not benefit either the traders or the customs revenue," he stated.
Speaking further on the challenges, he mentioned a lack of electricity, stating that there is an erratic electric power supply.
There is no exchange of information despite both sides being housed in the same facility due to lack of custom connectivity," he stated. "Additionally, there’s no access to firefighting services should a fire break out, and the internet connection on the Nigerian side is unreliable—it frequently switches over to the network from the Republic of Benin or goes into roaming mode.
Alasadua stated that the problems will soon be addressed, noting that WACTAF has convened meetings with the relevant ministries for assistance.
He mentioned that his office has established a Benin-Nigeria commission aimed at resolving the majority of these matters.
Alasadua stressed the importance of restructuring the private sector by preventing overcrowding and ensuring that all vehicles have the necessary documentation along with valid travel papers.
Alasoadua expressed frustration over the fact that traders dedicate many extra hours to traveling due to the abundance of checkpoints along the route from Mile 2 to Seme, despite the distance being only 100 kilometers.
"The trip, meant to take just a few hours, ends up taking two days," he stated.
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