Benin Republic has lifted the suspension on the transit of imported goods destined for Niger through the port of Cotonou. The West African regional bloc ECOWAS had imposed sanctions on Niger in response to a coup that occurred on July 26, resulting in the military ousting elected leader Mohamed Bazoum.
The sanctions led to the closure of the border between Benin and Niger, impacting the transportation of goods to Niger via Benin’s ports and causing a decline in revenues for Benin. The decision to lift the suspension is attributed to the substantial improvement in operational conditions at the port of Cotonou, including a reduction in congestion.
The move follows Benin President Patrice Talon’s call for the swift re-establishment of relations between Benin and Niger. Both countries are also concerned about a major oil pipeline that will enable Niger to sell its crude on the international market through the Benin port of Seme.