‘Nigeria fooling itself!’ Lawmakers Call for Reassessment of Border Closure

The National Assembly has raised concerns over Nigeria’s current border closure policy, highlighting its inefficacy in addressing insecurity and economic challenges, particularly in states sharing borders with Niger and Chad.

During the 2025 budget defense session held by the Joint Committee on Industry, Trade, and Investment, lawmakers criticized the border closure policy, describing it as ineffective in curbing smuggling and cross-border criminal activities.

Senator Francis Adenigba Fadaunsi, representing Osun East, called for a practical reopening of the borders, arguing that the current approach was counterproductive.

“The exit of Niger Republic and Chad from ECOWAS has worsened insecurity across border states and further compounded Nigeria’s economic challenges,”

he said.

Fadaunsi noted that the closure had not stopped the smuggling of goods like rice, as local production remains unable to meet the national consumption rate.

Echoing this sentiment, Hon. Fatima Talba, representing Nangere/Potiskum Federal Constituency of Yobe State, remarked that the borders appear effectively open despite claims of closure.

“With the free movement of people, including criminals, it’s time we stop deceiving ourselves with this so-called border closure,” she stated.

Hon. Paul Kalejaiye from Lagos State questioned the inconsistent implementation of the policy, asking,

“Are all borders nationwide truly closed, or is this policy selectively applied to specific regions?”

The committee urged Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, to liaise with the Presidency for a thorough reassessment of the border closure policy. This request comes amid ongoing concerns about its impact on the nation’s economy and security.

Earlier, Oduwole presented her ministry’s budget for 2025, outlining N3.8 billion for capital expenditure, N4.65 billion for personnel costs, and N1.45 billion for overhead. However, the committee identified errors in the submitted documents, including an incorrect allocation of N59 billion for a N50 billion project, and asked the ministry to make necessary corrections.

Lawmakers emphasized the need for transparency and actionable measures to address the challenges posed by porous borders, stressing that a more strategic approach is essential to safeguard Nigeria’s economic and security interests.