NASS decries ineffective border closure amid rising insecurity

The National Assembly, has criticized Nigeria’s border closure policy, labelling it a failure in addressing security and economic challenges.

During the 2025 budget defence session with the Ministry of Industry, Trade, and Investment, lawmakers expressed concerns about the ongoing cross-border banditry in states bordering Niger and Chad.

Senator Francis Adenigba Fadaunsi (PDP, Osun East), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Industry, argued that Nigeria’s borders are effectively open despite being “technically closed.” He highlighted the adverse economic impact, pointing out that local rice production is unable to meet the nation’s demand of 7 million tonnes, with a shortfall of 4 million tonnes being smuggled into the country.

“Border closure is worsening our economic fortunes. Rather than curbing smuggling, it is encouraging it,” Fadaunsi lamented.

Adding her voice, Fatima Talba (APC, Nangero/Potiskum, Yobe State) stated that the border closure was ineffective, given the unrestricted movement of people and criminals. “We must stop deceiving ourselves about border closure. It’s merely a façade,” she said.

Paul Kalejaiye (APC, Ajeromi/Ifelodun, Lagos State) questioned the selective enforcement of the policy, asking whether it applied uniformly across the country or was targeted at specific regions.

The committee, led by Senator Suleiman Sadiq Umar (APC, Kwara North), urged Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment Dr. Jumoke Oduwole to collaborate with the Presidency on a more effective solution.

During her presentation, Oduwole outlined the ministry’s 2025 budget, which includes N3.8 billion for capital expenditure, N4.65 billion for personnel costs, and a projected revenue of N24 billion. However, the committee flagged errors in the submitted documents, including a misreported N59 billion payments for a N50 billion project, and instructed the ministry to make corrections.

The lawmakers emphasized that Nigeria must urgently review its border policy to address security lapses and economic disruptions caused by ineffective implementation.

FRCN