Multiple police checkpoints and demands for bribes by Customs officials are impeding the smooth flow of goods along the Lagos-Accra corridor, a critical trade route between Nigeria and Ghana.
The challenges along the Lagos-Accra corridor not only disrupt economic activities within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) sub-region but also contradict the visa-free travel arrangement for citizens that has been in place for over two decades.
It also jeopardizes a crucial aspect of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which strives to establish a unified market for goods and services throughout the continent.
A driver for a transportation company operating along the route disclosed in December 2023, on the condition of anonymity to the B&FT, that he typically receives ₦400,000 (approximately US$510 at the time) from his company for a trip from Lagos to Accra.
“This is a huge burden for us, and it ultimately translates into higher prices for consumers,” he said – noting that the sum amounted to more than 25 percent of a two-way ticket’s cost for occupants of a 12-seater bus.
The issue is particularly prevalent on the Nigerian side of the border, he said. This correspondent counted 31 checkpoints on the road from Jibowu in Lagos to the Nigeria-Benin Republic Seme Border, and 23 between the Aflao border and Miotso – a figure that was corroborated by a businesswoman who regularly transports goods between the two countries.
“Ghana and Nigeria share a historic sibling rivalry, and now it looks like we are competing to see who is the most corrupt,” the businesswoman added.
The consequences of this entrenched corruption are far-reaching. Delays at checkpoints add hours to travel times, increasing transportation costs and impacting the competitiveness of businesses. This ultimately discourages trade and inhibits economic growth in the region.