Borno State Government and National Boundary Commission Host Workshop on Border Security and Integration

By: Our Reporter

Borno State Government, in collaboration with the National Boundary Commission (NBC), recently organized a one-day workshop in Maiduguri aimed at addressing the rising challenges of insecurity and promoting economic cooperation and integration in Africa. The workshop, titled “Transforming Borders from Barriers of Separation to Bridges of Cooperation and Integration,” focused on creating a platform for local border authorities along the Nigeria-Chad international boundary.

The workshop, held at the Multi-Purpose Hall in the Government House, Maiduguri, was officially declared open by the state governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum. In his speech, the governor emphasized the importance of the occasion, stating that it would enhance partnerships among stakeholders in border management and strengthen ties between Nigeria and Chad. He thanked all the participants for their support and commitment to safeguarding the interests of citizens.

Speaking on behalf of the host and deputy governor of Borno State, Umar Usman Kadafur, the commissioner for intergovernmental affairs and special duties, Tukur Ibrahim Shani, highlighted the significance of the workshop in enhancing border security. He stated that Borno State, due to its strategic geographical position, plays a crucial role in safeguarding Nigeria’s borders. He emphasized the need to address the unique challenges faced by local authorities in the region and expressed confidence that the workshop would contribute to the development of a comprehensive framework for border security.

The Director General of the National Boundary Commission, Surv. Adamu A. Adaji, expressed his gratitude to Governor Zulum for approving the workshop and to Umar Usman Kadafur for his cooperation and active participation as the chairman of Borno State Boundary Committee. Adaji noted that the workshop was timely, considering the increasing insecurity along the Nigeria-Chad border, and its impact on cultural and socio-economic cooperation between both countries.

The Director General highlighted Nigeria’s leading role in Africa’s cross-border cooperation and noted that the workshop was in line with the AU convention on cross-border cooperation, which Nigeria pioneered. He emphasized the importance of cooperation at local, sub-regional, and regional levels.

During the workshop, contributions were made by the state commandant of the Nigerian Immigration Service, as well as a representative from the Border Community Development Agency, highlighting the significance of the session.

The workshop aimed to address the challenges of insecurity and promote economic cooperation and integration in Africa by creating a platform for local border authorities along the Nigeria-Chad international boundary. The stakeholders expressed their commitment to safeguarding national interests and fostering peaceful coexistence among border communities.

Borno State Government and National Boundary Commission Host Workshop on Border Security and Integration