Here’re things Nigeria must do to strengthen border security

The Nigerian government has made strides in tackling insurgency, but experts say significant gaps must be taken.

Experts acknowledge progress made in military operations and commitment, increased funding. However, they say there are still issues of coordination, persisting regional insecurity, weak border security, economic hardship and human rights concerns.

The government has rolled out several interventions aimed at strengthening border security, countering insurgency, and ensuring the safety of citizens.

For instance, in December 2024, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex (BATTIC), which was built by the Nigeria Immigration Service, was operationalised to enhance the country’s security architecture.

The facility was established under the prioritised border management projects which, according to Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, minister of interior, integrates a Data Centre, Command and Control Centre into the ECOWAS Biometrics Centre, bolstering Nigeria’s surveillance capabilities.

“Additionally, the adoption of the Interactive Advanced Passenger Information (IAPI) system enables real-time, contactless profiling of travelers at official border points, enhancing security screening processes,” he noted.

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Chidi Omeje, CEO Security Digest, noted that while these measures improve monitoring at legal entry points, concerns persist over Nigeria’s porous borders, which facilitate arms smuggling and insurgent movements.

Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff, has consistently stated that the Nigerian military will engage in both kinetic and non-kinetic operations to counter Boko Haram, ISWAP, and banditry.

One of such major military operations is Operation Hadin Kai, which has been active since 2021, and targets Boko Haram and ISWAP in the Northeast.

Operation Safe Haven, launched in 2010, focuses on addressing ethno-religious conflicts in Plateau, Kaduna, and Bauchi states. Operation Whirl Punch, which started in 2018, is aimed at fighting banditry and terrorism in the North Central region. Operation Thunder Strike, ongoing since 2016, works to secure the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway.

The Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), a regional coalition involving Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, also plays a crucial role in cross-border counterinsurgency efforts.

The government has also supported community-based security and rehabilitation initiatives. The Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Borno State assists military operations against insurgents.

Amotekun in the South-West and Ebube Agu in the South-East are state-backed security outfits tackling regional threats. Operation Safe Corridor (OSC) is a de-radicalisation programme designed for surrendered insurgents.

The Terrorism (Prevention and Prohibition) Act (2022) has strengthened legal measures against terrorists, ensuring more effective prosecution and enforcement.

Meanwhile, cybersecurity initiatives have been enhanced to combat online recruitment, propaganda, and the digital operations of extremist groups.

Nigeria also benefits from international collaborations with the US, UK, and EU, which provide crucial intelligence-sharing, counter-terrorism training, and capacity-building for security forces.

While these interventions demonstrate commitment, significant gaps remain.

Security analysts argue that enhancing border security first is crucial to curbing illegal crossings.

Secondly, they say that intelligence-driven military operations are needed for more effective counter-terrorism efforts, noting that comprehensive training programmes must be prioritised to improve the capacity of security operatives.

Omeje believes that Nigeria’s fight against insecurity is far from over and that only a sustained, adaptive strategy can guarantee long-term stability.