The Nigerian Government has pledged to intensify efforts to improve the security of the country’s borders, following the activities of smugglers and the upsurge in security challenges bedeviling the nation.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who made the pledge on Wednesday, stressed that it has become the priority of his Ministry to focus on improved internal security through effective border control and management.
“Border security is the cornerstone of any nation’s defence.
“We have to take border management security seriously and work with border communities to create a sense of awareness and collaboration,” Tunji-Ojo said.
He made the statement while receiving the interim report of the Inter-Ministerial Committee on Integrated Border Governance, which conducted an assessment of Nigeria’s border security and management.
The minister extolled the committee for its diligent work, promising that the recommendations would be implemented to improve Nigeria’s border governance standards.
He also pointed out the critical importance of border security for Nigeria’s sovereignty and stability, noting that some of the longstanding challenges that have plagued the borders would be addressed through the deployment of innovative solutions.
According to him, the government would take immediate action based on the findings and recommendations of the Committee in consultation with relevant stakeholders to strengthen border security measures.
On his part, the chairman of the Inter-Ministerial Committee, Peter Egbodo, outlined the key observations and recommendations of the Committee.
Egbodo asserted that recommendations in the report would enhance security measures and help fortify the nation’s borders.
He said the committee proposed integrated cutting-edge surveillance technology, such as drones, satellite imagery, and advanced screening methods to enhance the effectiveness of border control measures.