The Senate has committed to taking decisive action to confront the security challenges facing Nigeria’s border regions.
Senator Binos Dauda Yaroe, who chairs the Senate Committee on States and Local Governments Administration, made this announcement on Monday in Abuja during the opening of a two-day stakeholder engagement in partnership with Global Consult Limited. He emphasized that cross-border crimes have hindered development for many years.
He noted that the committee aims to collaborate with relevant stakeholders to incorporate sub-national border communities into Nigeria’s economic framework.
Yaroe highlighted that the alarming crime rates in these border areas can be linked to years of neglect and the absence of essential services. He announced plans to make this engagement an annual initiative.
The senator encouraged local governments to leverage the Local Governments Autonomy to positively impact the lives of those residing in border communities, enhancing their welfare and development.
“We are dedicated to the advancement of our border communities, ensuring the safety of their residents, and implementing programs that foster a sense of belonging for all,” he stated.
He raised concerns about the lack of proper demarcation and definition of many border communities, explaining that some conflicts arise from unclear boundaries.
In support of this initiative, the deputy governors of Abia, Gombe, and Ekiti states expressed their excitement that the Nigerian Senate is finally addressing the multitude of challenges faced by those living in border areas on a daily basis.
