A chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), Ambassador Abayomi Nurain Mumuni, has called on President Bola Tinubu to deploy drones, biometric systems, and other modern technological tools to monitor Nigeria's porous borders as a measure to tackle the country's security challenges.
In a letter addressed to President Tinubu, Mumuni emphasized that enhanced border security is necessary to combat the rising wave of terrorism, kidnapping, armed robberies, banditry, and illegal migration that has plagued the nation in recent years.
"The persistent insecurity in Nigeria, characterized by terrorism, banditry, and illegal migration, is reaching alarming levels. Our nation's borders, being the first line of defense against these threats, deserve immediate attention," Mumuni stated in the letter made available to BenriNews on Thursday.
Porous Borders Fueling Insecurity
According to the APC chieftain, most of Nigeria's security problems are exacerbated by the porosity of the country's borders, which allows criminal elements to move freely in and out of the country.
"Nigeria's borders are not mere lines on a map; they are crucial veins that dictate the flow of people, goods, and potential threats. A porous border allows insurgents and criminal elements to infiltrate and operate unchecked," he explained.
Mumuni further highlighted that Nigeria's geographical proximity to countries facing similar security challenges complicates the situation, as cross-border criminal activities thrive under such circumstances.
Recommendations for Border Security Enhancement
The APC chieftain outlined several recommendations for the federal government, including:
Conducting a comprehensive audit of existing border security measures
Investing in modern surveillance technologies such as drones and biometric systems
Reinforcing security personnel presence along border areas
Ensuring regular training and proper equipment for border security personnel
Benefits of Secure Borders
Mumuni emphasized that strengthening border security would yield multiple benefits for Nigeria, including:
"Ensuring robust border security will mitigate the risk of terrorists and militia moving in and out of Nigerian territory. By enhancing surveillance, employing technological advancements, and increasing the presence of security forces along critical borders, we can form a solid deterrent," he stated.
The APC chieftain also noted that secure borders would help curb illicit trade routes that facilitate arms smuggling, drug trafficking, and the movement of stolen goods, which often fund terrorism and organized crime.
Additionally, he pointed out that improved border security could lead to better trade relations between Nigeria and other countries, ensuring economic stability and instilling a sense of safety in communities affected by insecurity.
The letter, signed by Mumuni's Media Aide, Rasheed Abubakar, comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with various security challenges across different regions of the country.
Follow BenriNews on social media for more updates: