Governor Zulum Advocates Stronger Cross-Border Trade Between Nigeria and Cameroon
By Faisal A Harande
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has called for the expansion of cross-border trade between Nigeria and the Republic of Cameroon as a means to strengthen economic ties and foster regional unity. The governor made this appeal during a high-level bilateral meeting in Banki, a strategic border town in Borno State.
The meeting brought together senior officials, including members of the National Assembly from Borno State and a delegation from Cameroon’s Far North region, led by Governor Midjiyawa Bakari. It followed the inauguration of several key projects in Banki, including the Banki International Cattle Market, a government lodge, and a memorial secondary school.
Boosting Regional Trade and Unity: Governor Zulum emphasized the critical role of trade in enhancing socio-economic development between neighboring countries, particularly in the cattle industry. He assured Cameroonian officials of his unwavering commitment to providing the political support needed to streamline trade processes.
“I want to assure you, Your Excellency, that under my leadership, I will provide the political will and commitment to drive this process forward,” Governor Zulum declared. He also praised Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s focus on strengthening trans-border trade and reducing bureaucratic hurdles that impede the smooth movement of goods between Nigeria and Cameroon.
Banki as a Free Trade Zone: In a move to solidify Banki’s position as a hub for cross-border commerce, Governor Zulum announced advanced plans to designate Banki as one of Nigeria’s free trade zones. This initiative, he explained, would open new economic opportunities for both nations while promoting regional stability.
Appreciation for Cameroon’s Support: Governor Zulum expressed gratitude to the Cameroonian government under President Paul Biya for its support in hosting Nigerian refugees affected by the Boko Haram insurgency. He also called for collaborative efforts to establish civil authority and ensure the safe return of over 20,000 displaced persons from Tarmu’a back to their communities.
Cameroon’s Commitment to Economic Cooperation: Governor Midjiyawa Bakari of Cameroon’s Far North region commended Nigeria’s efforts in improving security and highlighted the mutual benefits of cross-border projects like the Banki International Cattle Market.
“We will ensure that similar projects are replicated in our region,” Bakari said, emphasizing the importance of peace-building and sustainable development for regional prosperity.
Bakari proposed another bilateral meeting in Maiduguri or Marwa to explore further economic cooperation and strategies for rebuilding the region, which has faced disruptions from the Boko Haram insurgency.
AfCFTA Opportunities and Regional Collaboration: The President of the Borno State Chamber of Commerce, Alhaji Ahmed Ashemi, and the Senior Vice President of the Regional Council of Far North, Professor Jalou, highlighted the importance of leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
They emphasized that greater collaboration between Nigeria and Cameroon would unlock new opportunities for economic growth and trade expansion.
Key Takeaways:
Cross-Border Trade Expansion: Focus on the cattle industry and reducing trade barriers.
Economic Empowerment: Plans to establish Banki as a free trade zone.
Regional Stability: Collaboration to facilitate the safe return of displaced persons.
Cameroon-Nigeria Cooperation: Commitment to replicating successful projects and strengthening trade ties.
This initiative marks a significant step in fostering economic integration, unity, and stability between Nigeria and Cameroon. As the region rebuilds from the impact of insurgency, stronger cross-border trade offers a pathway to shared prosperity and sustainable development.
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