The Federal Government has called on member states of the Economic Community of West African States to take unified and decisive action against rising cross border crimes in the sub region. It warned that issues such as terrorism human trafficking arms smuggling and irregular migration no longer respect national boundaries and must be confronted collectively.
At a recent ECOWAS forum Nigerian representatives urged stronger cooperation on intelligence sharing joint patrols and coordinated law enforcement operations along shared borders. They stressed that insecurity in one country quickly spills into neighbouring states through porous frontiers and weak surveillance.
The Federal Government also highlighted the proliferation of small arms improvised explosive devices piracy and other transnational organised crimes in the Gulf of Guinea and across West Africa. It said these threats undermine economic growth disrupt trade routes and endanger millions of citizens in border communities.
Nigeria called on ECOWAS members to fully implement existing regional frameworks on security information exchange and border management. Officials said stronger political will adequate funding capacity building and community engagement are needed to make these agreements effective on the ground.
At the ECOWAS level leaders have repeatedly pledged to deepen cross border cooperation and adopt survivor centred approaches in tackling human trafficking sexual and gender based violence and violence against children. They reaffirmed commitments under Article 58 of the Revised ECOWAS Treaty and the ECOWAS Vision 2050 to safeguard peace and stability in the region.
President Bola Tinubu who currently plays a key role within ECOWAS has previously urged West African nations to mobilise citizens and security institutions against violent extremism and other cross border crimes. He described a united regional front as essential to stopping military coups terrorism organised crime and other forms of insecurity that threaten the sub region.
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2026–27 Champions League: All confirmed league-phase schedules and fixtures
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Missing persons in Nepal, China floods soar to nearly 3,000
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Gunfire heard near military base in Niger capital
The shooting began overnight and continued into the morning, with the cause initially unclear and authorities urging residents to remain calm as security forces mobilised.reuters+2 Residents reported sustained gunfire and explosions around Base 101, a military installation located within the Diori Hamani International Airport complex, as well as in the administrative district near the presidential palace and national broadcaster. Videos posted online showed armoured vehicles being deployed around the airport area.reuters+3 A Reuters report later cited four sources who described the assault as an attack by mutinous soldiers, rather than immediately confirming a jihadist attack. A security source said attackers targeted the airport and tried to breach security around the presidency, while another said some attackers had been neutralised and others fled during ensuing search operations.reuters+1 Base 101 is a sensitive site that houses the headquarters of Niger’s Russian Africa […]
Broken Systems: How graft sabotages Nigeria’s growth, governance
Nigeria’s corruption challenge goes beyond individual theft: it damages the systems that deliver services, discourages investment and leaves citizens bearing the cost of poor governance.bti-project+1 Every naira diverted from public funds reduces the resources available for hospitals, medicines, vaccines, schools, water systems and roads. The result is a cycle in which citizens are forced to pay privately for services that government spending should provide, while already weak public infrastructure continues to deteriorate.bti-project+1 Graft also reduces public trust in institutions and creates incentives for officials to prioritise private gain over the public interest. The BTI 2026 Nigeria report says the country’s political system remains affected by rent-seeking and diversion of public resources, while weak services and inadequate infrastructure persist.bti-project The economic effects are equally severe. Slow non-oil growth, high consumer prices, insecurity and weak foreign direct investment constrain businesses and jobs, […]
Cholera: NCDC warns of fresh surge as 65,000 cases hit 35 states
The warning comes as Nigeria’s rainy season heightens the risk of outbreaks, especially in communities affected by flooding, poor sanitation and limited access to safe drinking water.ncdc+1 Cholera is a bacterial disease spread mainly through contaminated food and water, and it can cause severe watery diarrhoea and dehydration if treatment is delayed. The NCDC has urged Nigerians to promptly visit a health facility if they or someone around them develops sudden watery diarrhoea, rather than relying on self-medication.ncdc The agency advised people to drink safe water, boil and store water in clean covered containers, wash hands frequently with soap and running water, and ensure food is thoroughly cooked. It also warned against open defecation, indiscriminate waste disposal and unsafe handling of food, all of which can fuel transmission.ncdc Health authorities are strengthening surveillance and response capacity nationwide, including through rapid-response […]
Police challenge VDM to provide evidence of officers aiding kidnappers
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Xenophobia: Minister meets S’African envoy after Tinubu snub
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Egypt moves closer to nuclear power as El Dabaa project offers lessons for Nigeria’s energy ambitions
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