Informal Trade and Cross-Border Logistics Along the Seme Border in Lagos: An Exploratory Study

This study provides an exploratory examination of informal trade and cross-border logistics activities along the Seme border corridor in Lagos, South West Nigeria. The Seme border, which connects Nigeria with Benin Republic, is one of the most active trade corridors in West Africa, facilitating substantial volumes of both formal and informal commodity exchange. Informal cross-border trade, defined as goods movement outside official documentation and tariff channels, has significant implications for revenue generation, supply chain transparency, and regional economic integration. Using a qualitative exploratory design, in-depth interviews were conducted with 40 cross-border traders, clearing agents, transport operators, and border officials at the Seme checkpoint. The study investigates the drivers of informality, the logistics mechanisms used for moving goods across the border, the risks encountered, and the economic rationale underpinning informal trade. Thematic analysis is applied to interview transcripts to identify recurring patterns and structural factors sustaining informality. The study situates its findings within recent literature on informal cross-border trade in ECOWAS and trade facilitation policies targeting the Abidjan-Lagos corridor. Findings are expected to reveal that high formal trade costs, complex documentation requirements, and inconsistent enforcement create incentives for informality. Recommendations will address border management modernisation, trade harmonisation under ECOWAS protocols, and livelihood-sensitive approaches to formalisation. Keywords: informal trade, cross-border logistics, Seme border, Lagos, ECOWAS.