The Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), Surveyor Adamu A. Adaji, has reaffirmed the Commission's dedication to strengthening Nigeria's border governance framework. This commitment was made as he received members of the committee tasked with reviewing the country's Border Management System in Abuja.
Committee Mandate and Background
The committee, established by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, is responsible for reviewing and enhancing Nigeria's border management architecture. Its primary objective is to address evolving security challenges and improve national security.
NBC's Position on Border Reforms
Welcoming the delegation to the Commission's headquarters, Surveyor Adaji commended the Defence Minister for initiating reforms aimed at bolstering border security and safeguarding Nigeria's territorial integrity. He stressed that effective border governance is critical to tackling terrorism, arms trafficking, irregular migration, transnational crimes, and climate-induced displacement, while also fostering peaceful relations with neighbouring countries.
Need for Coordinated Approach
According to Adaji, addressing the complex challenges along Nigeria's borders requires a coordinated approach involving security agencies, border communities, state governments, traditional institutions, and regional partners. He further highlighted the need for increased investments in border infrastructure, technology-driven surveillance, intelligence sharing, and cross-border cooperation to strengthen security and improve border administration.
Local Cross-Border Cooperation Platforms
Adaji also noted that the Local Cross-Border Cooperation Platforms established by the Commission along Nigeria's international frontiers have continued to promote trust, social cohesion, and joint responses to common challenges among border communities.
Committee's Response
Speaking on behalf of the committee, its leader, Brigadier General M.B. Shehu, expressed appreciation for the warm reception accorded the team and sought the Commission's support and collaboration in delivering on its mandate.
Broader Context
The NBC stated that the visit forms part of ongoing efforts by the Federal Government to review and strengthen Nigeria's border management system amid growing security concerns and the need for more effective border governance.
