Nigeria’s Federal Government has stressed the importance of stronger cooperation among government agencies, border states, traditional institutions, and neighbouring countries to improve border security and address growing cross-border threats.
The call was made during a one-day national workshop on “Border Security, Resilience and Cross-Border Cooperation” organised by the National Boundary Commission (NBC) in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, the Special Adviser to the Minister, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole (retd.), said effective border management remains essential for both national security and economic growth.
According to him, Nigeria’s borders are important gateways for trade, cultural exchanges, and regional interaction. However, they also face several challenges, including smuggling, illegal migration, trafficking, and other transnational crimes that threaten national stability.
Bankole noted that addressing these challenges requires a shift from traditional security methods to more modern and proactive approaches. He recommended the use of advanced technology, early warning systems, intelligence sharing, and stronger cooperation with neighbouring countries.
He explained that secure borders should not only be protected from threats but should also be capable of adapting to changing security conditions, economic pressures, and environmental challenges.
“Strong borders are not just secured; they are resilient, inclusive, and able to withstand security risks, climate-related issues, and economic disruptions,” he said.
Earlier, the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission, Adamu Adaji, highlighted the need for a coordinated approach involving all stakeholders responsible for border management.
He pointed out that Nigeria shares approximately 4,454 kilometres of land borders with neighbouring countries including Benin, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. In addition, the country has an estimated 853-kilometre coastline, making border security a complex and critical responsibility.
Adaji revealed that the commission has established several cross-border cooperation platforms involving traditional rulers, border communities, local government authorities, security agencies, and civil society organisations. These platforms are designed to encourage dialogue, gather information, prevent conflicts, and strengthen peace in border regions.
The workshop featured discussions on various topics aimed at improving border management and national security. Experts delivered presentations on cross-border cooperation, maritime governance, the blue economy, drone technology, border resilience, and peacebuilding initiatives.
Participants also explored how modern technology can help security agencies monitor border activities more effectively and respond quickly to emerging threats.
The Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, emphasized that many border-related challenges affect multiple countries and therefore require collective action.
He stated that no nation can successfully address issues such as smuggling, terrorism, and illegal migration in isolation. According to him, stronger regional partnerships are necessary to ensure lasting security and stability.
Deputy governors and chairmen of State Boundary Committees from Nigeria’s border states also expressed support for the National Boundary Commission’s efforts. They pledged to work closely with the commission in implementing strategies aimed at reducing cross-border crimes and improving security in border areas.
Traditional rulers from border communities also called for greater involvement in security operations. They described themselves as the first source of information within local communities and urged the government to integrate traditional institutions into security planning and coordination.
At the end of the workshop, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening border security, promoting cooperation across borders, enhancing resilience, and creating opportunities for economic growth in Nigeria’s border communities.
