By Maryam Shuaibu
The National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, has raised concerns over Nigeria’s porous borders, warning that they continue to fuel terrorism, arms trafficking, smuggling, human trafficking and other transnational crimes threatening national security.
Mr Ribadu made the remarks on Tuesday in Abuja during the opening of the 15th National Security Seminar organised by the Alumni Association of the National Defence College (AANDEC) in collaboration with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) and the National Defence College (NDC).
Represented by the Director of Policy and Strategy at ONSA, Ambassador Yazid Gbemudu, the NSA spoke at the seminar themed “Strengthening Nigeria’s Border Security Architecture for National Stability.”
He said Nigeria’s vast land and maritime borders offer significant opportunities for trade, regional cooperation and economic growth but also expose the country to a range of security challenges.
According to him, criminal groups and terrorist networks exploit weaknesses in border governance to carry out illicit activities that undermine national security and development efforts.
“While our borders support trade and regional integration, they also present avenues for terrorism, arms trafficking, smuggling, human trafficking, irregular migration and other forms of organised crime,” he said.
Mr Ribadu stressed that addressing these threats requires a comprehensive and coordinated approach to border management across relevant security and government institutions.
He highlighted the National Border Management Strategy as a key framework guiding Nigeria’s efforts to strengthen border security through intelligence sharing, improved infrastructure, enhanced surveillance and modernised border control systems.
The NSA noted that the deployment of Border Management Information Systems and other technology-based solutions at major entry and exit points has improved data gathering, traveller screening and migration monitoring.
He called for the full implementation of an integrated border management system to improve coordination among security agencies, intelligence services and law enforcement institutions.
According to him, intelligence sharing, joint operations and harmonised border procedures remain critical to effectively tackling emerging security threats.
He also advocated increased investment in technology-driven security measures, including biometric identification systems, advanced surveillance equipment and data-based monitoring frameworks.
He further emphasised the need for stronger cooperation with neighbouring countries, noting that many border-related security threats transcend national boundaries and require collective action.
The NSA added that improving the living conditions of border communities through infrastructure development, economic opportunities and social investments would help reduce their vulnerability to criminal exploitation.
The seminar brought together military officers, security experts, diplomats, policymakers, academics and other stakeholders to explore practical strategies for strengthening Nigeria’s border security architecture and promoting national stability.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that participants at the event discussed ways to enhance collaboration, technology adoption and policy implementation in securing Nigeria’s borders.