President Tinubu Moves to Enforce ECOWAS Protocols, Orders Dismantling of Illegal Checkpoints on Nigeria–Benin Corridor

By Adamu Aliyu Aliyu/ABUJA//

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken a bold and necessary step to strengthen regional integration and uphold Nigeria’s commitment to the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement by ordering the dismantling of multiple checkpoints along the Seme–Badagry corridor.

This directive follows growing concerns from citizens and transporters over the persistent harassment, extortion, and illegal roadblocks that have hindered the smooth passage of people, goods, and services between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin. The Seme border is West Africa’s busiest gateway—if free movement is to work anywhere, it must work here.

The Presidential Task Force, now set up under the SGF’s coordination, will begin with this critical corridor, ensuring that legitimate border checks are not turned into obstacles to trade or tools of oppression. This move reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda’s emphasis on transparency, regional leadership, and citizen dignity.

Nigeria must lead by example, and this policy action sends a clear message: under President Tinubu, economic integration and the rule of law are not negotiable.