Abuja: The Federal Government is enhancing cross-border cooperation with the Niger Republic, despite the latter’s recent exit from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), along with Mali and Burkina Faso. Mr. Adamu Adaji, the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), revealed this initiative during an assessment of President Bola Tinubu’s administration after two years in office.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adaji highlighted the ongoing cooperation between the NBC and Niger authorities to ensure that international boundaries are visible. This cooperation is crucial as border communities are impacted by boundary delimitation on both sides. He emphasized that while governments and politics may differ, the people living in these areas share a common understanding and relationship regarding boundaries.
Adaji noted that efforts are being made to promote peaceful coexistence among communities affected by boundary demarcations, where some communities find themselves divided between Nigeria and Niger. “We try to encourage that cooperation, and they have been cooperating,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of making boundaries clear for residents on both sides.
He further explained that the geographical proximity has fostered economic and social ties between the people, which continue to thrive. Adaji expressed optimism that this cooperation might encourage Niger to reconsider its position and rejoin the ECOWAS fold, as the regional bloc is working to provide facilities that support cross-border collaboration.
“I think it will be better if they are within the ECOWAS fold,” Adaji remarked, adding that for now, the focus remains on ensuring that the boundaries are well-defined to aid understanding among the people.