Emerging security threats and cross-border criminal activities are pushing Nigeria to adopt a more technology-driven approach to border management.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said stronger cooperation among security agencies, border communities, universities, regional bodies and development partners is critical to tackling the challenges.
Tunji-Ojo spoke at the opening of the 2026 African Borderlands Research Network conference in Lagos, where participants examined security, economic and social developments around Africa’s border regions.
Represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Policy, Kareem Olajoku, the minister said terrorism, human trafficking, arms trafficking and smuggling increasingly operate across national boundaries.
The Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Kemi Nandap, said the service was deploying digital technology, biometric systems, intelligence sharing and improved engagement with border communities to strengthen border security.
She said the NIS had also introduced automated border control systems, including e-gates, alongside surveillance, communication and integrated data platforms covering the country’s air, land and maritime borders.
Nandap said the goal was to detect emerging threats early, improve operational coordination and facilitate legitimate travel while safeguarding national security.
Tunji-Ojo urged greater recognition of border communities as partners in security and development, while calling for stronger links between research and policymaking.
He said findings from the conference should translate into practical measures to improve border management, regional cooperation and security across Nigeria and Africa.
