Despite E-Border Surveillance, Illegal Migration Persists Across Nigeria’s Borders

Despite the Federal Government’s multi-billion-naira e-border surveillance initiative launched in 2019, illegal immigration remains a pressing issue at Nigeria’s borders, particularly from neighboring countries like the Republics of Benin, Chad, Niger, Mali, and Cameroon. Some of the illegal migrants are suspected to be bandits, terrorists, and kidnappers.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, stated in May 2024 that over half of Nigeria’s borders are now covered by automated e-border surveillance, with visuals and monitoring processes actively operational. Tunji-Ojo emphasized that by October 2024, the first phase of the e-border project, including marine borders, would be completed. He also highlighted that securing borders effectively requires technological integration.

At the December 2024 launch of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex, the Minister revealed that approximately 250 trained immigration personnel operate the e-border control center, working 24-hour shifts. Despite these advancements, illegal migration continues, with reports from border communities revealing that many still manage to cross the borders undetected.

A particular concern is the Baruten Local Government Area in Kwara State, where residents have reported that illegal immigrants continue to cross from the Republic of Benin, even after the border was closed by the government in 2020 to bolster security. The former chairman of Baruten LGA, Abdulrasheed Abdullahi, confirmed that while the closure had been intended to restrict migration, it has not prevented people from neighboring Benin from entering Nigeria.

The Federal Executive Council had approved N52 billion for the e-border project in 2019, intending to secure key border posts nationwide. However, delays due to funding challenges meant the project did not begin until 2022. Nigeria’s vast borders, stretching approximately 5,330 kilometers, present an ongoing challenge for border security.

The Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) claims to have deployed the e-border system to over 80 crossing points across the country, allowing for 24/7 monitoring. However, some local monarchs, like the Eselu of Iselu in Ogun State, have criticized the system, calling it a “white elephant project” that has done little to curb illegal migration. The Eselu claims there are no visible barriers or signs demarcating the border, and the influx of migrants from Benin remains unchecked.

Similarly, residents from border communities in states such as Jigawa, Cross River, and Taraba also reported ongoing challenges. In Jigawa’s Maigatari, a border town with Niger, local residents said that despite family and cultural ties with Nigeriens, the issue of illegal immigration persists. The same situation is evident in Taraba, where porous borders allow immigrants to enter undetected, raising concerns about competition for resources and security threats.

In contrast, some border communities, like those in Cross River, have praised the government’s efforts in strengthening border security. Traditional leaders from Bakassi Local Government Area expressed support for the ongoing fight against illegal immigration, recognizing the role of the Nigerian Customs Service and other security agencies in managing the border effectively.

Despite these efforts, local leaders in several states have pointed out that more resources and technological advancements are needed to overcome the challenges posed by illegal immigration. They emphasize the need for better coordination between the federal government, local authorities, and the people to address the complex dynamics of border security and migration.