Influx of foreign fighters mirrors weak border surveillance

The recent influx of foreign fighters into Nigeria, particularly from the Sahel region, has raised significant concerns regarding national security and the effectiveness of border surveillance.

This trend has been linked to a resurgence of terrorist activities, complicating the already challenging security landscape in the country.

However, there are over 1,400 illegal routes into Nigeria – 1,316 more than the approved number of border control posts – according to data from the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS). The 84 approved border controls cover 4,047km, the total length of Nigeria’s land border shared with Benin, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.

A military source who pleaded anonymity told BusinessDay that the porous nature of these borders has become a gateway for foreign fighters, fueling insurgency and terrorism in the country.

“These fighters come from within Nigeria and neighbouring countries, exploiting unguarded routes and unmonitored spaces to join insurgent camps,” he said.

Nigeria’s four international borders present distinct security challenges due to their geographical features and length.

The Benin border spans 773 kilometers, running from the Niger River to the Bight of Benin. It serves as a critical link between Nigeria and West Africa but remains vulnerable to illegal crossings.

The Niger border, which stretches about 1,497kilometers, is the longest and cuts through vast forests and ungoverned spaces, providing insurgents with easy access to Nigerian territory.

Similarly, the Cameroon border, covering 1,690 kilometers, extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the South to Nigeria’s northernmost regions. Its extensive length and diverse terrain make monitoring and patrolling particularly difficult.

Although the Chad border is only 87 kilometers long, its strategic location makes it a critical point for security operations.

The source also identified waterways and dense forests in states like Niger, Kaduna, and Zamfara as prominent entry points for insurgents.

“Our borders are open in many areas, making it easy for terrorists disguised as locals or cattle rearers to infiltrate,” he said, highlighting the urgent need for tighter border controls.

He proposed the adoption of HESCO barriers—military fortifications made of sand-filled containers—to block unauthorised crossings. Combined with patrols, he argued, these barriers would deter infiltration and secure vulnerable routes.

The defence official also recommended creating a dedicated Border Security Force, with 1,000 personnel deployed per border state.

He called for better coordination among security agencies and urged state governments to actively engage in the National Counterterrorism Strategy and Crisis Management Doctrine.

“Local governments must address ungoverned spaces—areas without functional police stations, judicial systems, or governance structures. These gaps leave communities vulnerable to insurgent influence,” he warned.

A critical point raised by the source is the need to reconsider ECOWAS’ free movement policy in the light of rising security threats.

While regional integration remains vital, he argued that current realities demand stricter border controls to curb the flow of insurgents, illegal arms and cattle rustlers.

He stressed the importance of decisive actions and political will in addressing border security challenges.

“Defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity must not be politicised. We need coordinated efforts to safeguard lives and prevent further infiltration by foreign fighters,” he asserted.

Speaking with BusinessDay, Chidi Omeje, CEO of Security Digest, underscored the gravity of border security, describing it as a ‘capital-intensive’ endeavour requiring urgent national attention.

Read also: How porous borders worsen Nigeria’s security challenges

“Border security is a serious business anywhere in the world. Even in the United States, it was a cornerstone of former President Trump’s administration. For a country like Nigeria with thousands of unmanned borders, the situation is even more critical,” he noted.

He noted that Nigeria’s borders remain porous due to insufficient manpower, equipment, and logistical support.

“Agencies like immigration, customs, and other security outfits face severe constraints, leaving vast stretches of land unmonitored. We need a collective effort,” Omeje stated.

“This is a national emergency. It’s not about passing blame between defense headquarters and immigration; everyone must step up,” the officer, earlier quoted, added.

Speaking on condition of anonymity, a senior officer in the service echoed these concerns, calling for a significant increase in funding and resources for border security agencies.

“The government needs to prioritise equipping immigration and other security agencies with patrol vehicles, motorbikes, communication equipment, and advanced surveillance tools,” she said.

Experts argue that beyond equipment, the welfare of officers must also be addressed. Many officers face poor working conditions, including inadequate housing, lack of healthcare facilities, and delayed pensions.

“An officer who isn’t motivated or assured of their future is more likely to compromise. Pensions take years to process, and officers often lack basic amenities like accommodation and access to medical care,” she further said.