FG pushes intelligence-led border security, resilience

The Federal Government of Nigeria is prioritizing intelligence-led border security and resilience, advocating for stronger collaboration among federal agencies, border states, traditional institutions, and neighboring countries. This approach aims to effectively address cross-border threats and enhance national security.

At a national workshop on "Border Security, Resilience and Cross-Border Cooperation" in Abuja, Rear Admiral Olusanya Bankole (retd.), Special Adviser to the Minister of Defence, stressed that effective border management is critical for both national security and economic development. He noted that while Nigeria's borders facilitate trade and interaction, they are also vulnerable to transnational crimes, irregular migration, and smuggling. Bankole called for a shift from traditional security methods to proactive measures, including early warning systems, technology-driven surveillance, and improved intelligence sharing with neighboring nations.

“

resilient borders are not only secured, but they are adaptive, inclusive and capable of withstanding security threats, climate change and economic disruptions.

Adamu Adaji, Director-General of the National Boundary Commission, highlighted that border management necessitates coordinated action from multiple stakeholders. Nigeria shares approximately 4,454 kilometers of land borders with Benin, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, in addition to an 853-kilometer coastline. Adaji mentioned the commission's efforts to establish cross-border cooperation platforms involving communities, traditional rulers, local authorities, security agencies, and civil society organizations to foster dialogue, information gathering, and conflict prevention.

The workshop featured discussions on cross-border cooperation, maritime governance, drone technology, and peacebuilding initiatives. The Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, underscored the importance of international cooperation, stating that border-related challenges cannot be managed in isolation. Deputy governors and traditional rulers from border states pledged support for initiatives aimed at improving security and combating transboundary crimes, emphasizing the vital role of traditional institutions as the "first eyes and ears" of border communities.

“

first eyes and ears