Benin Lifts Transit Goods Suspension to Niger

Benin has lifted its suspension of imported goods transiting to Niger through the port of Cotonou, following five months of sanctions on the country following a coup.

The sanctions were imposed by the West African regional bloc ECOWAS following Niger’s military coup. The closure of the border with Benin has led to a fall in revenues.

Meanwhile, the port’s director general, Bart Jozef Johan Van Eenoo, said the suspension was lifted due to improved operational conditions and reduced congestion.

Also, the move comes after Benin President Patrice Talon called for swift re-establishment of relations with Niger. Both countries are also concerned about a massive oil pipeline that will allow Niger to sell its crude on the international market.