C’River Deputy Gov raises concern over boundary disputes

Cross River State Deputy Governor Peter Odey has called on Nigeria's National Boundary Commission (NBC) to accelerate the demarcation of state and national borders. He emphasized that prompt demarcation is crucial for preventing recurring conflicts and fostering peaceful coexistence along internal and international boundaries.

Speaking at a workshop on Border Security, Resilience, and Cross-Border Cooperation in Abuja, Odey described effective border governance as vital for Nigeria's security, stability, and socio-economic development. He observed that global trends favor collaborative approaches to border management, enhancing security, promoting peace, and supporting development in border communities.

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This workshop is timely and significant because effective border governance remains critical to Nigeria’s security stability, socio-economic development and promoting peaceful coexistence, as well as fostering sustainable development in border communities.

Odey lamented that Cross River State continues to face lingering boundary disputes with neighboring states, including Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, Benue, and Abia. These unresolved issues, he stated, pose significant challenges to peace, security, and development in the affected areas. He urged for coordinated action to define and demarcate boundaries to avert further tensions.

The Deputy Governor also drew the NBC's attention to recent border-related incidents, such as the reported invasion by Cameroonian soldiers in Danare, Boki Local Government Area, and ongoing matters concerning the Bakassi Peninsula. He stressed the need for the commission to fulfill its statutory responsibility by ensuring timely and proper boundary demarcation in these sensitive areas.

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As a border state, Cross River appreciates the strategic importance of effective border governance and cross-border collaboration in line with the People’s First agenda of Governor Bassey Otu. This administration is committed to promoting peace, security, and inclusive development most especially in communities located along the state’s boundaries