Benin and Nigeria IT Experts Finalize SIGMAT Deployment Roadmap
Published: May 23, 2025
Key Decisions Made at Benin-Nigeria Border Meeting
Information technology experts from Benin and Nigeria have validated the implementation roadmap for the Interconnected System for the Management of Goods in Transit (SIGMAT). The decision came during a crucial meeting held on May 20, 2025, at the Sèmè-Kraké border crossing between the two nations.
Roadmap Highlights for SIGMAT Implementation
The comprehensive deployment plan includes several critical phases:
- A test phase to enhance server communication between both countries
- Configuration of production systems on national servers
- Pilot site activation and message exchange evaluation over two weeks
- Training programs for customs officials and private sector operators
- Extension to additional border crossings between Benin and Nigeria
ECOWAS and GIZ Support Regional Trade Initiative
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), with technical and financial support from Germany’s GIZ, will facilitate the training and awareness campaigns in both countries. This regional initiative aims to streamline customs procedures and boost intra-ECOWAS trade.
Technical Implementation Requirements
Before full deployment, experts identified several key actions:
- Development of a regulatory framework
- Configuration of communication nodes
- Technical setup of SIGMAT infrastructure
- Pilot site activation and system interconnection
Border Management Improvements
The meeting also addressed enhancements to the Sèmè-Kraké border checkpoint infrastructure. ECOWAS representatives presented findings from an evaluation mission, with follow-up meetings planned to align operations with the Benin-Nigeria bilateral agreement.
Leadership Perspectives
Osamwonyi Ehigie Uzamere, Head of IT at Nigerian Customs Service, emphasized collaboration for SIGMAT’s success. ECOWAS representative Aïssata Yaméogo Koffi commended participants for their dedication to the regional integration project.
SIGMAT’s Regional Impact
Since its 2019 launch, SIGMAT has aimed to:
- Reduce transit delays for goods
- Combat customs fraud and revenue losses
- Strengthen economic integration
- Improve financial management transparency
The system represents ECOWAS’s commitment to enhancing trade efficiency, reducing bureaucratic barriers, and improving West Africa’s global competitiveness.
Source: ECOWAS Official Website