Nigeria Signs MoU with Niger and Chad to Boost Funtua Dry Port Operations
Nigeria has officially signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Republics of Niger and Chad to enhance regional trade and integration through the Funtua Inland Dry Port, aimed at streamlining import and export activities across the borders.
This landmark agreement positions Funtua to become a vital hub for regional commerce, helping to reduce logistical challenges and foster economic growth in the region.
Dr. Umar Mutallab, Chairman of the Funtua Inland Dry Port, represented by Alhaji Tijjani Dandutse, shared this development during the official launch of operations at the port.
Dr. Mutallab emphasized the strategic importance of the port, which is set to optimize trade routes and offer a faster, more efficient solution for transporting goods regionally.
“We have already promoted the facility in Niger and Chad, and we’ve signed an MoU to ensure all their import and export activities will pass through Funtua,” Dr. Mutallab stated.
He further highlighted that the port’s operations would drastically reduce the time it takes for goods from Niger to reach their destinations, shortening the typical three-month journey through Togo, Burkina Faso, and Mali to just a few weeks.
The Nigerian Shippers Council, which played a key role in establishing the port, expressed strong optimism about the collaboration.
Hajiya Kareematu Usman, Director of the North/West Coordinating Office of the Shippers Council, described the Council as a nurturing force behind the inland dry port. “Today is a momentous day for us, as we witness the birth of the dry port, which will foster regional trade and open new business opportunities,” she said.
Usman encouraged stakeholders, especially the youth, to explore the economic prospects that the port creates for the region.
The Customs Comptroller for Katsina State, Idris Abba Aji, praised the port’s readiness and assured businesses of the safe handling of goods. He urged exporters and importers to comply with all regulations to ensure seamless operations.
Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim Dodo, Managing Director of the port, expressed confidence in its capacity to handle the demands of regional trade. “We’ve already begun receiving goods from Lagos, and we’re expecting a significant increase in activity soon,” he said.
The MoU with Niger and Chad is expected to boost Funtua Inland Dry Port’s traffic, attract investments, and strengthen economic ties across the region. With its strategic location and enhanced logistics, the port is set to play a central role in advancing regional trade and economic development.
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