Former Vice-President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has pledged to reopen Nigeria’s land borders if elected president in the 2027 general election. He said the move would help revive legitimate cross-border trade and improve economic opportunities for Nigerians.
Atiku said the closure of the country’s borders had negatively affected trans-border businesses, particularly in northern states where many communities depend on trade with neighbouring countries. He noted that the restrictions had forced some traders out of business and contributed to job losses.
The former vice-president said northern states share borders with Cameroon, Chad, Niger Republic and Benin Republic, making cross-border commerce an important part of the regional economy. He argued that reopening the borders would allow legitimate businesses to resume operations while strengthening economic activities in border communities.
Atiku also pledged to improve port infrastructure in southern Nigeria, saying better distribution of ports would reduce the cost of transporting goods across the country. He said he had already held discussions with European shippers about developing port facilities in the South and South-East.
He said his proposed measures were aimed at reducing the cost of moving goods and creating more economic opportunities for Nigerians. Atiku, who is seeking the presidency under the ADC, said his administration would prioritise policies capable of reviving businesses, increasing employment and strengthening the country’s economy.
