By Mary Agidi

Nigeria faces a profound security threat due to the existence of over 320 unmanned illegal routes along its borders as recently disclosed by the retired Assistant Comptroller-General (ACG) of Immigration, Mr. Sunday Fagbamigbe. 

Having retired on October 4, Fagbamigbe disclosed this pressing issue in a recent interview in Abeokuta, where he explained that these routes enable uncontrolled movement into Nigeria, facilitating the smuggling of arms, contraband, and unregulated migration from neighboring countries.

The Nigerian government had previously implemented border closures in August 2019 to curb the smuggling of goods, including rice, and prevent the outflow of locally subsidized petrol. However, despite this closure, foreign rice, cooking oil, and other goods have continued to flow into Nigeria. This raises doubts about the effectiveness of the border policy and suggests that contraband is still entering through unmonitored routes, as alleged by Fagbamigbe.

The influx of migrants—particularly the Fulanis, who are now spread across the country—poses additional challenges to national security. Neighboring countries, especially Niger, are believed to be significant sources of these unchecked entries, aggravating Nigeria’s already complex insecurity problems.

Technological Solutions for Border Management

Addressing the issue, Fagbamigbe urged the Federal Government to adopt advanced technological measures for border surveillance. He emphasized the need for electronic-based monitoring systems, including video surveillance, night vision scopes, and AI-driven drones, which have been successful in countries with advanced border security systems. Notably, he mentioned that the current reliance on human personnel alone is inadequate given the sheer number of illegal routes.

Border security concerns extend beyond smuggling. Issues such as human trafficking, drug trafficking, and illegal arms movement are exacerbated by these porous borders. According to Fagbamigbe, a technology-driven approach would help detect and monitor border breaches more effectively than human patrols alone.

The retired NIS Boss  suggested that artificial intelligence, sensor-based monitoring, and dark-fighter cameras would enhance security in areas too remote or dangerous for regular personnel.

Public Outcry and Calls for Accountability

The public reaction to Fagbamigbe’s revelations has been swift. Nigerians are questioning the government’s lack of action on these known security threats,  calling for accountability. 

In his reaction, a seasoned entrepreneur Mr. Moyosola Niran-Oladunni demanded clarity on how such extensive illegal routes could exist without official awareness or intervention. 

He emphasized that the situation calls for urgent action rather than mere statements, urging the government to enforce strict policies to secure the nation’s borders and protect citizens.

“This report raises more questions than answers. What’s causing these illegal routes? Who’s benefiting from them? We need transparency and accountability from our government. Let’s demand answers and solutions, not just rhetoric. Let’s hold our leaders accountable and demand results,” Niran-Oladunni said.

Investigative Insights and Governmental Inaction

Fisayo Soyombo, an acclaimed investigative journalist, had previously exposed alleged corruption within Nigerian Customs few months ago , detailing how banned items were smuggled into the country through supposedly closed land borders. Yet, almost a year after the publication of his findings, the government has not taken concrete steps to address or investigate these claims. The absence of action on Soyombo’s report further fuels public skepticism about the government’s commitment to securing Nigeria’s borders.

Veteran journalist and media trainer Anikeade Funke-Treasure recently addressed the issue on “A Place At The Table” on News Central TV, questioning the government’s lack of response to Soyombo’s allegations. She stressed the importance of investigating these weighty claims instead of dismissing them, stating, “These are weighty claims that should not be swept under the carpet.”

The Impact on the Common People

The ongoing border insecurity has economic implications for everyday Nigerians, who feel the effects of high prices on imported goods that are still readily available despite the official border closures. Ms. Yinka Ololade, a businesswoman in Akure, voiced her frustration with what she perceives as the government’s insincerity, accusing officials of punishing citizens under the guise of enforcing border security. “The government announced land borders closure, but we still have foreign rice in our markets selling at high prices. Why can’t government officials enter our markets to evacuate foreign items if they’re really serious about stopping importation?” Ololade questioned.

In her statement, Ololade echoed the widespread perception that these illegal routes are being used not only for smuggling consumer goods but also for bringing weaponry into the country, a serious threat to national stability.

A Call for Strategic Policy Reform

The existence of these illegal routes is more than a logistical issue; it symbolizes a critical flaw in Nigeria’s national security strategy. There is a clear need for reforms to close these gaps and ensure that all border policies are genuinely enforced. The Nigerian government faces increasing pressure from citizens to provide effective solutions that secure borders and restore public trust.

As insecurity continues to pose threats across Nigeria, addressing border issues with transparency and accountability remains a crucial step toward protecting citizens and preserving national stability. Advanced technology, comprehensive reforms, and a commitment to enforcing policies are urgently required to secure Nigeria’s borders and prevent further infiltration.