Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, has established a 13-member committee to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the nation’s borders.
This initiative was announced in a statement issued by Mr. Afonja Ajibola, the Deputy Director of Press and Public Relations in the ministry, on a Saturday in Abuja.
The committee, known as the ‘Integrated Border Governance Committee,’ was formed during a presentation on border management and control by a consultant in Abuja.
The minister emphasized that the committee’s primary goal is to engage in in-depth discussions and craft an actionable border management plan to enhance national security.
Comprising individuals from both the ministry and its affiliated agencies, the committee has been granted an 18-week timeline to complete its mission. The committee is led by the Director of Joint Services in the ministry, with key roles held by the Director of Planning Research and Statistics and the Director of Legal Affairs.
Additional members include representatives from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Federal Fire Service (FFS), the Border Community Development Agency, the Community Boundary Commission, and an external consultant.
The minister emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of Nigerians residing near the borders attending schools in neighboring foreign countries. He pointed out that the loyalty of these individuals naturally leans towards the foreign countries, which poses a challenge to achieving the desired level of security for Nigeria.
To tackle this issue effectively, he urged for tangible budgetary allocations to provide essential social infrastructure to these border communities, promoting a stronger sense of belonging among residents.
