Customs to Commence Operations at Maigatari Free Trade Zone for Enhanced Economic Activities
By Gift Wada
The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) has announced its readiness to begin operations at the long-dormant Maigatari Free Trade Zone (FTZ) in Jigawa State. This is expected to stimulate economic activity and attract investments to the state.
This was disclosed by the Customs Area Controller (CAC) for Kano/Jigawa, Comptroller Dalhatu Abubakar, during a courtesy visit to the Executive Governor of Jigawa State, Mallam Umar Namadi, at the Government House in Dutse on Thursday, 10 July 2025.
Comptroller Abubakar, who conveyed the goodwill of the Comptroller-General of Customs (CGC), Adewale Adeniyi, said the Service is fully prepared to commence operations at the Free Trade Zone, following recent directives from the CGC. He noted that while a few technical and administrative issues remain, they are surmountable.
“If the state is ready, we can begin operations immediately,” Abubakar affirmed, emphasising the NCS’s commitment to the zone’s activation.
The Maigatari Free Trade Zone, located near Nigeria’s border with the Niger Republic, was designed to serve as a strategic hub for cross-border commerce and industrial activities.
Comptroller Abubakar said that with full operations, the zone could position Jigawa as a major player in regional trade. He also commended the management of the Maigatari FTZ for their commitment to reviving the project and stressed that the Customs Service is ready to partner with the state to ensure its success.
In his remarks, the state governor, Governor Umar Namadi, described the Maigatari Free Trade Zone as central to Jigawa’s economic diversification agenda. He lamented that although the zone was established over 25 years ago, it had remained largely inactive due to a lack of operational support. However, he assured that this narrative is about to change.
“We have settled all statutory requirements, commenced renovations, and engaged investors. With continued support from Customs, we believe the zone will become fully operational in no time,” the Governor added.
The activation of the Maigatari FTZ is expected to create job opportunities, increase foreign direct investment, and enhance Nigeria’s non-oil revenue base.
