By Peter Omopo
The House of Representatives has initiated moves to address Nigeria’s lingering border security challenges and review the implementation of the ECOWAS Protocol on Free Movement of Persons, Residence, and Establishment.
Lawmakers expressed concern over the growing insecurity along Nigeria’s borders, which they said has contributed to rising cases of smuggling, illegal migration, human trafficking, and cross-border banditry.
During Tuesday’s plenary session, members of the House noted that while the ECOWAS protocol was designed to promote regional integration and trade, its abuse has created serious national security threats for member states, especially Nigeria.
The House, therefore, resolved to review and strengthen existing border control policies to safeguard national security while still upholding the spirit of regional cooperation.
It also mandated relevant committees on Interior, Foreign Affairs, and National Security and Intelligence to engage with the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Nigerian Customs Service (NCS), and Ministry of Foreign Affairs to assess the effectiveness of the current framework.
Lawmakers further emphasized the need for modern surveillance technology and stricter immigration checks to monitor the influx of foreign nationals into the country.
The resolution underscores the National Assembly’s commitment to ensuring that Nigeria’s borders are secure and that the ECOWAS free movement agreement does not compromise the nation’s sovereignty and internal security.
