NCS, Benin Customs Unveil Technology-Driven Plan to Modernise Seme-Krake Joint Border Post
The Nigeria Customs Service, NCS, and the Benin Republic Customs Administration have unveiled plans to modernise the Sèmè–Kraké Joint Border Post through a technology-driven operational framework aimed at improving cross-border trade, security and enforcement.
The initiative was presented to stakeholders and the media on Friday, September 11, 2026, at the Sèmè border by the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Customs Service, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, MFR, during a joint evaluation with the Director General of Benin Customs, Col. Raouf Malehhossou Aboudou.
Adeniyi said the project would move the border from temporary repairs to a comprehensive modernisation programme built around interconnectivity, coordinated enforcement and standardised procedures.
According to him, although the existing infrastructure has adequate lanes, parking areas and offices, there is a need for an integrated operational system connecting the two Customs administrations.
“To truly operate as a joint border post, we require interconnectivity,” Adeniyi said, adding that the NCS is developing a common data exchange system with Benin Customs to provide real-time visibility of declarations on both sides, strengthen transit cargo monitoring and facilitate the sharing of risk profiles and alerts.
The modernisation plan will also include the restoration of scanning capabilities, improved access control and surveillance, as well as the establishment of joint enforcement and intelligence mechanisms. Adeniyi further called for bilingual standard operating procedures and a robust management structure for shared infrastructure.
The customs boss also announced a dedicated facility for women traders operating along the corridor. The facility is expected to simplify procedures for small consignments, provide traders with relevant information and support the integration of more women into the formal trading system.
Adeniyi said the initiative would also help address challenges including harassment, extortion and delays, while making the Sèmè–Kraké crossing more efficient, transparent and responsive to legitimate trade.
On his part, the Director General of Benin Customs, Col. Raouf Malehhossou Aboudou, expressed support for the initiative, commending Adeniyi for his practical approach and determination to recalibrate joint operations at the border.
Aboudou assured that the Benin Customs Administration would fully support the new framework, noting that officers on both sides were ready to work together towards improving cross-border trade and strengthening bilateral Customs cooperation.
Earlier, the Sèmè Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Abdullahi Shuaibu Kaila, commended the leadership of both Customs administrations for their commitment to revitalising trade along the Sèmè–Kraké corridor.
Kaila reaffirmed the command’s commitment to facilitating seamless legitimate trade while maintaining border security, protecting government revenue and enforcing relevant laws and regulations.
The new operational framework is expected to strengthen coordination between Nigeria and Benin and position the Sèmè–Kraké corridor for more efficient, secure and transparent cross-border trade.