The Republic of Niger’s military authorities have imposed stringent restrictions on goods originating from Nigeria, citing rising security concerns in the region.

Colonel Mohamed Yacouba Siddo, Customs Formalities Corporation Officer, issued the directive, which was later circulated on social media by security analyst Brant Grant. The order mandates that all goods entering Niger from Nigeria, particularly “miscellaneous goods,” must be offloaded and thoroughly inspected at entry points before proceeding to their final destinations.

The notice further clarified that goods accompanied by valid documentation from recognised ports of discharge would only be offloaded at their designated endpoints. Colonel Siddo urged all officers to ensure strict compliance and to report any challenges encountered during enforcement.

The move comes against the backdrop of heightened regional tension following a failed coup in the Republic of Benin on Sunday. It also coincides with claims by the Confederation of Sahel States (AES) that eleven Nigerian military personnel were detained in Burkina Faso for allegedly violating its airspace. The Nigerian Air Force, however, dismissed the allegations, stating that the aircraft made an emergency landing due to technical reasons and did not breach any airspace regulations.

The development underscores the fragile security situation in the West African region and highlights the growing vigilance of neighbouring states in monitoring cross-border activities.