ibironkeeniola 
The gains and demerits of border closure by the Federal Government have been examined by stakeholders in virtually all the sectors. This examination ranges from upward and downward development of agricultural, transportation, finance sectors, among others. The result of this measure being taken by the President Buhari-led government seems to be positive as many rice mills worth billions of naira have begun to spring up.
The contribution of staple foods, particularly rice, to human development, as well as the economy of a country, cannot be overemphasised. However, discouraging its importation from other countries and boosting its production in Nigeria was a necessity for the present government; and this, in the last few years, has been given top priority.
The Federal Government had, in August 2019, announced the closure of the country’s borders that connect Benin and Niger Republics, sequel to massive smuggling activities, particularly rice. The exercise, being coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser and code-named, Ex-Swift Response, is being jointly conducted by the Nigeria Customs Service, Immigration, Police and military personnel. President Muhammadu Buhari had, in a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Media, Femi Adesina, said the activities of the smugglers threatened the self-sufficiency already attained due to his administration’s agricultural policies.
SOURCE: DAILY TRUST