.. Push For Biometric Card For Cross Border Traders
By Omolade Abdulkareem
Harboursandport.com: Lagos- October 23, 2024: The new President of Badagry Chamber of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture BACCIMA, Alhaji Yahaya Oladiran Idris has said Chamber under him will push to make Badagry a thriving Satellite Town.
In an exclusive interview with Harboursandport.com at the just concluded training for cross border traders, the new BACCIMA President also disclosed that the Chamber is also pushing for a biometric identification card to be issued to traders involved in cross border business.
Idris assured that efforts are being made by the Chamber and other stakeholders to enhance economic activities and improve the overall quality of life for traders and residents.
He noted that key initiatives which are on the pipeline, includes the introduction of an inter modern transportation system and an innovative biometric card for traders.
He further noted that the card, similar to those used in French-speaking countries, would serve as an official ID card for traders crossing the borders. It will enhance security and streamline the process of crossing into neighboring countries, he said.
He explained that the biometric card is designed with security features to ensure that traders can operate confidently without the risk of identity fraud.
As the region looks to support its business environment, he pointed out that the Chamber has been actively advocating for policies that will ensure peaceful and conducive atmosphere for traders to do business.
He noted that in collaboration with government agencies, including Immigration and Customs officials, the chamber is making strides in cross border trade initiatives through the International Cross Border Trade ICBT program.
The program he continued is aimed at facilitating smooth trade relationship with neighboring French speaking countries, is crucial for a town that serves as a gateway for commerce in Nigeria.
"My vision about Badagry which would definitely be that 'I want to see Badagry as satellite town' a very developed satellite town in lagos state that will have inter modern transportation system.
"You can see that Badagry chamber of commerce, we have been doing a lot with policy to make sure that there is ease of doing business around that axis. We are even involved in ICBT (the cross border trade) we have been consulting with Immigration and Customs about it.
"In fact, we have just spoken with the Immigration that they should issue this biometric card to traders along that road because the French speaking countries are using this card like an ID card.
"You just use it, when you get to the place, you show them because the officers know you cannot compromise the biometric card."
"Last week, the Comptroller General of Immigration, Kemi Nanna visited Badagry, where she met with members of the Chamber of Commerce to discuss the implementation of this biometric system. "During the meeting, she expressed her commitment to assisting the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture NACCIMA in rolling out the biometric card.
"This development has been met with passion from the business community, as it represents a crucial step towards fostering trust and efficiency in cross boder trade.
"The introduction of the biometric card is expected to not only to ease the movement of traders but also stimulate economic growth in Badagry.
"With a more streamlined approach to border trade, the town can expect an invasion of business activities that could lead to job creation and improved living standards for its residents and traders.
"In addition to the biometric card initiative, plans for an inter modern transportation system are underway. "This system aims to connect Badagry more effectively with other parts of Lagos State, enhancing accessibility for both residents and businesses.
"Improved transportation infrastructure will facilitate the movement of goods and people, making Badagry an even more attractive destination for investment," he assured.
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