NACCIMA takes road trip to Togo, identifies challenges hindering Cross-Border Trade

Charles Okonji

Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) has undertaken a strategic road trip from Nigeria to Togo as part of efforts to promote seamless intra-African trade, support Nigerian exporters, and identify barriers affecting cross-border commerce within the West African sub-region.

The fact-finding mission, led by the National President of NACCIMA, Engr. Jani Ibrahim, commenced from Lagos through the Seme Border en route to Lomé, Togo, where the delegation participated in the Biashara Afrika 2026 trade forum.

Speaking on the significance of the exercise, Engr. Ibrahim explained that the road trip was designed to provide first-hand insight into the realities faced by exporters and transport operators along one of West Africa’s busiest trade corridors.

According to him, the delegation engaged directly with exporters, customs officials, transport operators and other stakeholders to better understand the operational challenges impeding the free movement of goods across borders.

He noted that the assessment revealed several obstacles that continue to undermine regional trade and the competitiveness of Nigerian products in neighbouring markets.

Among the challenges identified were prolonged delays at border posts, multiple security and regulatory checkpoints, cumbersome administrative procedures and other non-tariff barriers that increase transaction costs and discourage exporters.

The NACCIMA President observed that such impediments not only affect the profitability of businesses but also hinder efforts to deepen economic integration within the region and fully harness the opportunities presented by continental trade initiatives.

He reaffirmed NACCIMA’s commitment to championing reforms and policy measures aimed at facilitating trade, enhancing regional cooperation and improving the ease of doing business in line with the objectives of the ECOWAS Trade Liberalisation Scheme (ETLS) and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

“The findings from the road trip will form part of NACCIMA’s ongoing engagement with government agencies, regional institutions and development partners aimed at addressing trade barriers and creating a more efficient, predictable and competitive export environment for Nigerian businesses,” Engr. Ibrahim stated.

He further emphasized that NACCIMA would continue to serve as a strong advocate for the private sector by promoting initiatives that expand market access, strengthen regional value chains and unlock the vast opportunities available through intra-African trade.

“NACCIMA, as a private sector leader, remains committed to championing initiatives that enhance market access, promote regional value chains, and unlock the full potential of intra-African trade for the benefit of Nigerian enterprises and the broader African economy,” he added.

The delegation accompanying the National President on the mission included Alhaji Yahaya Oladiran Idris, National Vice President of NACCIMA; Engr. Olusola Obadimu, Director General of NACCIMA; Alhaji Salami Alasoadura, Cross-Border Trade Adviser; Hajia Amina Lawal-Aliyu, Head of Trade Facilitation; Mr. Willem Inya, Manager, Research; and Mr. Rotimi Obagbemi, Manager, Public Relations.

Industry stakeholders have lauded the initiative, noting that direct engagement with traders and border authorities provides valuable insights that can guide policy interventions and improve trade efficiency across the region.

The mission underscores NACCIMA’s broader commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment, strengthening regional economic ties and ensuring that Nigerian businesses are well-positioned to benefit from the growing opportunities presented by Africa’s evolving trade landscape.