NIGERIA SEEKS REGIONAL COOPERATION TO STRENGTHEN BORDER GOVERNANCE

Nigeria has called for stronger regional cooperation among African countries to address emerging challenges affecting border communities and improve border governance across the continent.

The National Boundary Commission made the call during the 2026 International Conference of the Association of Borderlands Research Network, where stakeholders discussed ways to strengthen cooperation in Africa’s border regions.

The commission said effective border governance requires collaboration among governments, security agencies, academics, border communities, and development partners.

It noted that many challenges affecting border areas, including cross-border crime, insecurity, migration, and limited economic opportunities, cannot be effectively addressed by individual countries acting alone.

The commission therefore urged African countries to deepen information sharing and coordinate policies aimed at improving security while supporting legitimate movement and trade across borders.

Stakeholders also stressed the importance of involving border communities in decision-making, noting that local residents often have valuable knowledge about the challenges and opportunities within their communities.

The Nigeria Immigration Service has similarly highlighted the importance of technology and stronger partnerships in improving border management and tackling cross-border crime.

The stakeholders said stronger cooperation would also support regional integration and create opportunities for economic development in border communities.

Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to working with neighbouring countries and regional institutions to promote secure, peaceful, and economically productive border areas.

The call comes amid wider efforts across West Africa to strengthen border security, improve regional integration, and transform border communities into centres of cooperation and development.