Nigeria, Benin Renew Commitment To Peaceful Boundary Demarcation Process

Nigeria and Benin have reaffirmed their dedication to peacefully resolving boundary disputes, emphasizing the importance of enhanced cross-border cooperation to bolster security and economic development in shared regions. The National Boundary Commission (NBC) Director-General, Surveyor Adamu A. Adaji, addressed the commencement of the Joint Standing Committee meeting in Lagos from October 28 to 30, 2026.

The conference aims to review lingering boundary concerns, incorporate technical suggestions, and fortify bilateral collaboration between the neighboring nations. Adaji highlighted the significance of the gathering, stating it would foster friendship, cooperation, and peaceful coexistence between Nigeria and Benin, which share roughly 770 kilometers of land boundary spanning six Nigerian states.

He underscored the necessity of considering the interests of communities along the boundary during the demarcation process. The NBC head recommended engaging affected communities through sensitization efforts while pursuing the boundary demarcation process. Adaji emphasized that completing the demarcation must coincide with continued collaboration among governmental bodies and border communities.

He encouraged the full execution of the Memorandum of Understanding on Local Cross-Border Cooperation, signed by chairpersons of border local governments in Nigeria and their Beninese equivalents. Adaji praised Benin's ongoing commitment to bilateral boundary agreements and acknowledged German government assistance via GIZ in promoting peaceful boundary management and cross-border cooperation.

Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, represented by Acting Director of the West Africa Division Mrs. Temidayo Balogun, reiterated that the meeting's goals extend beyond marking a geographical line. The minister stressed that the process should prioritize the building of a peaceful, predictable, and mutually advantageous relationship between the two neighboring states, emphasizing that success should be evaluated based on technical advancements, strengthened cooperation, and the benefits delivered to citizens of both nations.