This study investigates the economic impact of border closure of Nigeria’s hinterland from 2020 to 2024 on Northern Nigeria with particular reference to Jibia and Mai-adua Local Government Areas of Katsina State. The research framework of the study is based on a mixed-methods approach. The study uses the survey responses of 300 participants and semi-structured interviews with 20 key stakeholders to analyse the changes in income, employment, agricultural output, and market trends. Findings show a double edged effect as the closure led to increased agricultural activities and growth in some small scale enterprises due to reduced competition from imported goods but at the same time, it increased economic hardships through inflation, loss of livelihoods, disruption of informal trade networks and increased smuggling. Communities that depended on cross-border trade saw steep drops in income and rising poverty. Nevertheless, there were opportunities in local production developments, diversification of livelihoods, and increased agricultural self-sufficiency. The study stresses the importance of designing balanced policies that reconcile the objectives of border security with economic stability through targeted relief measures, infrastructure development, support to local sectors and increased regional cooperation. The findings add to the debate on trade policy and regional development, highlighting the intricate impacts of border control measures on border economies.