By Adetokunbo FAKEYE
Nigeria – The 4th edition of the Festival of Art for Economic Development by the Ogun 1 Customs Area Command, Idiroko, was successfully held on Wednesday, 12th February, 2025 in Idiroko border town, with a strong focus on the theme “Cross-Border Trade: What It Is and Why It Matters”.
The event, which brought together key stakeholders from Nigeria and Benin Republic, as stated by the Command’s spokesman, CSC Hammed Bukoye Oloyede, emphasized the critical role of trade in fostering economic growth, cultural exchange, and regional cooperation.
In his welcome address, Comptroller Mohammed Salisu Shuaibu, Customs Area Controller, Ogun I Area Command, highlighted the transformative power of cross-border trade in driving economic prosperity.
He noted that trade not only enhances market expansion but also strengthens relationships between nations, fostering peace and mutual understanding. He urged participants to leverage the festival as a platform for promoting sustainable economic activities through trade and cultural diplomacy.
Delivering the keynote address, according to Bukoye, Bonny Abisogun Botoku, Executive Producer of the Festival, underscored the indispensable role of customs and border management in facilitating trade while ensuring security.
He described cross-border trade as the lifeblood of regional economies, generating employment, increasing revenue, and enhancing market access for businesses.
Botoku further commended Comptroller Shuaibu for his unwavering commitment to strengthening trade facilitation and economic development through the arts.
A key highlight of the event was a thought-provoking presentation by Assistant Comptroller of Customs, C Amaweh psc+, who provided deep insights into the history, benefits, and challenges of cross-border trade.
He stressed the need for policy harmonization, technological integration, and improved border security to address the persistent challenges of informal trade, revenue loss, and illegal migration.
The festival showcased an array of artistic expressions that reflected the vibrant cultural and economic ties between Nigeria and Benin Republic.
Participants engaged in discussions on how art can serve as a tool for economic empowerment, while also reinforcing the need for policies that enhance regional trade and investment opportunities.
“The Art for Economic Development Festival continues to serve as a strategic platform for fostering dialogue, collaboration, and innovative solutions to trade-related challenges.
“As the event concluded, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening economic integration, promoting legal trade practices, and leveraging art as a vehicle for sustainable development.
“The festival was graced by notable dignitaries, including Hon. Johnson Akohomeh Avoseh, Executive Chairman of Ipokia Local Government Area, Hon. Alhaja Maroufatou Falola, Deputy Mayor of Ifonyin Municipality, and esteemed Traditional Rulers. Other dignitaries at the occasion are the principal officers of the Nigeria Customs Service, Ogun 1 Area Command, representatives from security agencies, senior government officials, Mr & Mrs Moses of Goge Africa, Barrister Botoku, and participants from secondary schools and tertiary institutions, among others”, Bukoye stated.
