Cotonou, Benin: After five months of suspended trade, Benin has lifted its restrictions on goods transiting through the port of Cotonou to neighbouring Niger. The move signals a potential thaw in relations between the two West African nations following regional sanctions imposed on Niger after a July military coup.
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) had imposed sanctions on Niger, including border closures with Benin, in response to the overthrow of elected President Mohamed Bazoum. The sanctions resulted in a significant drop in revenue for Benin’s ports, as Niger relied heavily on Cotonou for importing goods.
However, Benin’s port director general, Bart Jozef Johan Van Eenoo, announced this week that the suspension on Niger-bound goods has been lifted due to “substantial improvements in operational conditions” at the port, particularly a decrease in congestion.
This decision comes shortly after Benin President Patrice Talon called for a swift normalization of relations with Niger. Both countries share strong economic ties, with Niger currently constructing a major oil pipeline that will transport its crude for export through the Benin port of Seme for the first time.
While the lifted sanctions offer welcome relief for Benin’s economy, the political situation in Niger remains uncertain. ECOWAS has not yet indicated whether or not it will lift its broader sanctions, including the travel ban on Niger’s current military leaders.
Despite the remaining challenges, the reopening of the Benin-Niger transit corridor represents a positive step towards regional stability and economic recovery. It is hoped that continued dialogue and cooperation can lead to a full resolution of the political crisis in Niger and a strengthening of ties between the two neighboring countries.