The destruction of a key bridge linking communities along the Luma–Babana–Agwara corridor is expected to trigger significant economic disruption for border communities in Niger and Kwara states, analysts and residents have warned.

The bridge, located along Luma Road in the Borgu Local Government Area, served as a vital rural transport link connecting farming communities to the Babana border market, a major commercial hub that attracts traders from surrounding towns and neighbouring Benin.

Security sources said suspected terrorists destroyed the bridge using an improvised explosive device (IED) in the early hours of Monday, an incident that has already heightened security concerns in the region. Authorities said the attack is likely to have far-reaching implications for trade, transport and livelihoods across the Niger–Kwara border corridor.

Market supply chains disrupted

The Babana market, held every Monday, serves as a major centre for the exchange of agricultural produce, livestock and household goods between local farmers, traders and cross-border merchants. With the bridge damaged, traders now face difficulties transporting goods to the market, raising fears of disrupted supply chains for grains, livestock and other farm produce.

Mohammed Aminu Aliyu, a Bayero University Kano economics professor, said informal cross-border trade, which forms a significant part of the local economy, is also expected to decline sharply as movement between communities becomes more difficult.

”Many households in the affected communities rely heavily on the weekly market to sell farm produce such as maize, millet, beans, vegetables and livestock,” Aliyu said. Residents said the destruction of the bridge could prevent farmers from reaching buyers in time, increasing the risk of spoilage for perishable goods and leading to a decline in household income.

Transport costs set to rise

Transport operators are also likely to face longer travel distances as they seek alternative routes around the damaged bridge. This could lead to higher transport fares for passengers and increased costs of moving goods, a development that may ultimately push up food prices in nearby towns.

The road corridor supports the movement of farm produce to markets as well as the distribution of consumer goods from urban centres to rural communities. With the route disrupted, traders, transporters and small businesses operating along the corridor may experience declining revenues as the flow of goods slows.

Local government revenues at risk

Border markets such as Babana generate revenue for local authorities through market levies, trading permits and transport charges. A slowdown in commercial activities could therefore reduce internally generated revenue for local governments in the Borgu and Kaiama areas.

Aliyu said repeated attacks on infrastructure could discourage investment and development initiatives in the region. Beyond the economic impact, the destruction of the bridge may further isolate communities from essential services such as healthcare and education.

Residents have renewed calls on security agencies and government authorities to strengthen surveillance and restore critical infrastructure to prevent further economic disruption along the Niger–Kwara border axis. (Business Day)

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