ABUJA — Nigeria and Benin Republic have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) designed to deepen cross-border cooperation and strengthen grassroots relations between communities along the shared frontier.
The Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), Adamu Adaji, announced the development in a statement on Friday in Abuja, signed by the Head of Information and Public Relations Unit, Efe Ovuakporie.
According to Adaji, the agreement marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations, with a focus on empowering local government authorities and traditional institutions to drive peace, security, and development across the border.
“The MoU formalises cooperation between Chairmen of Nigeria’s Border Local Government Areas and Mayors of Communes in Benin Republic, alongside traditional rulers on both sides,” Adaji explained.
He said the primary objectives include strengthening resilience against cross-border crimes, reviving socio-cultural linkages disrupted by colonial demarcations, and promoting peaceful coexistence and good neighbourliness.
The NBC boss noted that the deal, signed under the African Union Convention on Cross-Border Cooperation, the ECOWAS initiatives, and the Nigeria–Benin Cross-Border Cooperation Agreement, would also accelerate ongoing efforts to demarcate the boundary.
By giving local leaders and traditional authorities a stronger voice, Adaji said the MoU is expected to ease tensions, provide amicable dispute resolution, and foster long-term stability in the region.
Beyond security, the agreement also highlights economic opportunities, with joint initiatives in trade, agriculture, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges envisioned as tools to boost livelihoods and drive regional integration in line with ECOWAS objectives.
“This MoU is a grassroots-driven instrument that aligns with continental and regional frameworks while providing practical solutions to the everyday realities of border dwellers,” Adaji stressed.
Representing Nigeria’s border communities, Idris Mohammed, Chairman of Baruten Local Government Council in Kwara State, welcomed the MoU as a timely response to longstanding concerns of residents.
Similarly, Joseph Ahoyo, Mayor of Malanville Commune in Benin Republic, praised the pact for involving local actors directly.
“National agreements are important, but without grassroots participation, implementation often stalls. This MoU is unique because it empowers communes and traditional authorities to play an active role in shaping the future of our shared border,” Ahoyo said.
Officials from both sides revealed that the agreement will be followed by practical steps, including the creation of Joint Dialogue Platforms and Pilot Programmes on security cooperation, economic exchanges, and cultural revival — initiatives expected to deliver early benefits while reinforcing long-term peace and integration.
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