The National Assembly on Friday expressed deep concern over cross-border banditry despite the ongoing border closures, noting that insecurity in states bordering Niger and the Republic of Chad has intensified.
The issue of porous borders, despite the closures, was highlighted during the 2025 budget defense session held by the joint committee with the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment.
Senator Francis Adenigba Fadahunsi, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Industry, voiced his disappointment over the current state of the borders, stating, “It would be better for the borders to be openly managed rather than being technically closed.”
He emphasized that the withdrawal of Niger Republic and Chad from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the subsequent opening of their borders to Nigerians have exacerbated insecurity in affected states, further straining the country’s economy.
“Border closure is detrimental to our economic prospects. Instead of curbing smuggling, it is, in fact, encouraging it. For instance, in rice production, the country faces a shortfall of 4 million tonnes, with local producers only meeting 3 million tonnes out of the 7 million tonnes required. The deficit is being smuggled into the country,” he explained.
Fatima Talba, a member of the Committee representing Nangero/Potiskum Federal Constituency of Yobe State, remarked that for her and her constituents, the borders appear open despite the official closure.
“Given the unrestricted movement of people and even criminals across the borders, it’s time to stop the pretense of border closure,” she stated.
Paul Kalejaiye, representing Ajeromi/Ifelodun Federal Constituency of Lagos State, questioned the effectiveness and scope of Nigeria’s border closure policy.
“We must clarify the border policy being implemented. Are all borders nationwide closed, or is this measure applied selectively to certain regions?” he inquired.
The Committee, led by Senator Suleiman Sadiq Umar representing Kwara North, urged the Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, to consult with the Presidency on resolving the border closure issue.
Dr. Oduwo
