Nigeria-Cameroon Boundary: Commission creates platform for Border Authority

The National Boundary Commission in collaboration with the Adamawa State Government have organized a one-day Workshop for the creation of Nigeria’s platform for Local Border Authority along Nigeria-Cameroon International Boundary.

The workshop which took place in Yola the Adamawa State capital, brought together the government of Borno, Taraba, Benue, Cross River and Akwa Ibom states, the Director General of the National Boundary Commission, International Participants, Senior Officials of Federal and State Governments.

Adamawa State Governor, Amadu Fintiri applauds the significance of the boundary matter in Adamawa State and express his government’s unwavering commitment to its resolution.

‘’The choice of the theme of this workshop “Transforming Borders from Barriers of Separation to Bridges of Cooperation and Integration” is apt coming at a time when we are faced with challenges of boundary demarcation’’. Governor Fintiri said

The Adamawa State Government acknowledges the gravity of the lingering border issues within our State and at Interstate levels. 

We recognize the complexities involved and the impact of these matters on the affected communities. This again goes on to understand the dynamics that account for the neglect of the borderlands population often excluded and at times neglected despite existing as buffer and also serving as gatekeepers to corridors of our Nation.Fintiri added.

Deliberations at the workshop focused on Governments improving collaboration and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.

Governor Fitiri therefore reaffirm the State Government’s unequivocal readiness to support all plans and initiatives aimed at addressing the protracted border challenges in various States in Nigeria which have resulted to communal clashes, several acts of economic sabotage and a number of cross border security disturbances.

One of the key objectives of the one-day workshop was to create a platform for local border authorities along Nigeria and Cameroon International Boundary.

Governor Fintiri said it will go a long way in seeking to establish a platform for the engagement of Nigeria’s local border authorities to promote peaceful coexistence, good neighborliness and sub-regional integration.

He said the absence of clear demarcation poses risks and challenges, especially in areas lacking adequate security infrastructure.

“It is imperative that we address these concerns to ensure the safety and well-being of our citizens. As you are aware, Adamawa State alone has nearly nine hundred kilometers border with Cameroon stressing the fact the State is burdened with more of the need for the expected outcomes of this workshop to seek awareness and to create a consultative platform between Nigeria and other composite counterparts in the neighboring Countries”. Fintiri reemphasized

The perspective of the communities directly affected by the border matters is of utmost importance because their livelihoods, access to resources, and sense of security are intricately linked to the resolution of these issues.