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2024 End-of-Year Media Parley: NBC DG Outlines Accomplishments, Challenges, Future Strategic Objectives
By Chukwuka Kanu
The National Boundary Commission (NBC) has reaffirmed its commitment to addressing boundary disputes, fostering peaceful coexistence, and promoting sustainable development in Nigeria’s border regions.
This assertion was made by the director-general, Surv. Adamu Adaji, through the director in charge of interstate boundaries, Surv. Dr. Emmanuel Bulus, during the commission’s 2024 end-of-year media session on Thursday in Abuja.
He acknowledged that, despite the successes achieved, the commission still faces hurdles such as inadequate resources, insecurity in certain areas, and resistance from stakeholders. However, the NBC remains committed to overcoming these challenges through strategic partnerships and innovative strategies.
Read full text below:
Ladies and gentlemen of the Press, distinguished guests, and my esteemed management staff,
Good evening, and thank you for joining us at this 2024 end-of-year media parley. This occasion provides an opportunity to reflect on our achievements, address the challenges we have encountered, and share our vision for the year ahead.
The National Boundary Commission (NBC) remains steadfast in its mandate to resolve boundary disputes, promote peaceful coexistence, and drive sustainable development across Nigeria’s boundary regions.
Achievements in 2024
1. Interstate Boundary Department: Boundary Delimitation and Demarcation.
The resolution of interstate boundary disputes remained a top priority for the NBC and in 2024, we made significant strides in the following areas:
The Anambra/Enugu Boundary disputes saw the introduction of an innovative and dynamic approach otherwise known as the “Anambra/Enugu Home grown Formula,” been introduced to resolve the interstate dispute between the sister states leveraging local engagement and political will to advance the demarcation process.
Benue/Nasarawa Boundary: We successfully revived stalled pillar emplacement projects by harmonizing historical records and facilitating renewed dialogue between stakeholders.
Kebbi/Niger Boundary: Technical committees were established to evaluate historical documents and execute boundary tracing setting the stage for peaceful resolutions.
Field and Technical Exercises: Our team conducted extensive verification and alignment exercises on boundaries including Gombe/Taraba, FCT/Nasarawa, the Enugu/Kogi and determination of the Ekiti/Ondo/Osun tripartite point.
These efforts demonstrate our commitment to ensuring accuracy, fairness, and peaceful coexistence along Nigeria’s interstate boundaries.
2. Research and Policy Analysis Department
To enhance evidence-based decision-making, the NBC prioritized research and policy analysis in 2024:
Digitization of Records: The NBC’s library was fully digitized, modernizing archival practices and ensuring easier access to critical historical and legal documents.
Ethnographic Studies: Comprehensive studies were conducted along key boundaries such as Osun/Ogun and Adamawa/Taraba, these studies provided vital insights into cultural and socio-economic dynamics directly contributing to the formulation of conflict resolution strategies.
Sensitization workshop for boundary managers in Bauchi, covering seven states.
These initiatives underscore the importance of research in shaping effective boundary policies and fostering long-term stability.
3. Training and Capacity Building
Recognizing the importance of human capital development, the NBC invested significantly in training and capacity-building programs for staff and stakeholders in 2024.
Training Sessions: Focused on modern boundary management techniques and the application of advanced technologies, performance management system(PMS) participants acquired skills to enhance operational efficiency and accuracy in boundary surveys, demarcation activities and stakeholder engagement.
This investment in knowledge and skills will continue to yield dividends for the Commission and the nation in the years to come.
4. Maritime Boundaries Department
The Maritime Boundaries Department achieved remarkable milestones in 2024, advancing Nigeria’s maritime interests and fostering peaceful boundary resolutions.
Key achievements include: Nigeria/Ghana Maritime Boundary: Resumption of boundary negotiations and establishment of a Joint Technical Committee, with plans for the first Ghana/Nigeria Boundary Commission meeting in 2025.
Nigeria/Equatorial Guinea Maritime Boundary: Proactive engagements for sustainable resource management in the Gulf of Guinea, with discussions scheduled for early 2025.
Extended Continental Shelf: Capacity-building efforts, including officers training in Tanzania, focused on managing this vital maritime zone.
Deep Seabed Mining Advocacy: A sensitization workshop in September positioned Nigeria to seize opportunities in this emerging sector.
Collaboration and Partnerships: Facilitated the gazetting of host communities along the shoreline and collaborated with NASRDA on geospatial data management systems.
Achievements: International Boundaries Department for 2024
1. Nigeria-Benin International Boundary
The NBC facilitated several meetings aimed at resolving longstanding issues along the Nigeria-Benin international boundary. Key milestones included the inaugural session of the Committee of Experts on the Adjara River Sector, held in Porto Novo, Benin Republic, and subsequent meetings that screened and agreed on essential documents for resolving disputes in the Adjara river sector. Additionally, technical committees plotted historical treaties to better understand the boundary’s behavior in three states. along the Illo/Bugu sector.
2. Nigeria-Niger International Boundary
Significant strides were made along the Nigeria-Niger boundary with the sensitization of communities in Adare and Maigatari sectors, preparatory to the construction of 40 intermediate pillars in Jigawa State. These pillars, constructed between existing primary pillars, aim to make the boundary more visible and reduce disputes.
3. Nigeria-Cameroon International Boundary
The Commission completed the construction of 254 pillars in Borno State along the Nigeria-Cameroon boundary. It also hosted the 6th Extraordinary Session of the Cameroon-Nigeria Mixed Commission in Yaoundé and undertook confidence-building initiatives in Adamawa, Borno, and Cross River States. Field assessments in Adamawa addressed disagreement areas, culminating in the 30th Project Steering Committee meeting in Lagos, where recommendations were made for resolving disputes.
4. Community Resettlement Projects
To support communities affected by boundary realignments, the NBC completed the construction of solar-powered boreholes in Banki town (Borno State) and Hadejia (Jigawa State). These efforts are critical in improving the livelihoods of displaced populations and fostering peaceful coexistence.
Through these initiatives, the International Boundaries Department has reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to peaceful boundary management, fostering cooperation with neighboring countries, and enhancing the welfare of border communities.
6. Cross-Border Cooperation
Cross-border cooperation remains a cornerstone of our mandate, reflecting Nigeria’s commitment to regional and continental integration:
In 2024, we advanced these initiatives on several levels:
National Level: The NBC Operationalized bilateral platforms along Nigeria’s international boundaries. These platforms, covering Nigeria/Benin, Nigeria/Niger, Nigeria/Chad, Nigeria/Cameroon and Nigeria’s maritime borders, promote peaceful coexistence and mutual cooperation among border communities.
Regional Level: As a leader in the ECOWAS Cross-Border Cooperation initiative, Nigeria continues to champion the free movement of people, goods, and services within West African.
Continental Level: Nigeria Ratified the African Union Niamey Convention on Cross-Border Cooperation. This step enhanced peaceful border management, strengthened border security, and unlocks economic opportunities under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA),
Through this effort we are transforming borders from barriers into bridges of cooperation and development.
Challenges
Despite these successes, challenges such as limited resources, insecurity in certain regions, and stakeholder resistance continues to pose huddles. However, the NBC remains committed to overcoming these obstacles through strategic partnerships and innovative solutions.
Strategic Goals for 2025
As we look forward to the future, the NBC is committed to expanding its impact and ensuring sustainable management of Nigeria’s boundaries. Our strategic goals for 2025 include:
1. Accelerate the Resolution of Boundary Disputes: Strengthen collaborations with state governments, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders to expedite dispute resolution and foster lasting peace.
2. Expand Public Awareness Campaigns: Roll out nationwide sensitization programs to educate citizens on the importance of boundaries in fostering unity and national development.
3. Strengthen Grassroots Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Equip local leaders and boundary communities with tools for resolving conflicts amicably and sustainably.
4. Enhance Technological Integration: Invest in advanced geospatial technologies, drones, and mapping tools to improve accuracy and efficiency.
5. Promote Regional and International Cooperation: Advance cross-border agreements to enhance security, stimulate trade, and foster regional integration under the AfCFTA.
6. Bolster Capacity Building Initiatives: Organize specialized training sessions on maritime law, conflict resolution, and boundary management.
7. Operationalize the Extended Continental Shelf: Develop a roadmap for sustainable exploitation of maritime resources in compliance with international laws.
8. Strengthen Data Management Systems: Collaborate with NASRDARMFAC(REVENUE MODEL) and other agencies for a harmonized geospatial database.
9. Support Climate Resilience Along Boundaries: Implement projects addressing coastal erosion, desertification, and resource conflicts.
10. Foster Inclusive Participation: Ensure representation and inclusion of women, youth, and marginalized groups in decision-making processes.
Closing
I wish to use this occasion to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Federal Government, State governments, traditional rulers, development partners, and our border communities for their unwavering support. I also would like to commend the Media for their unwavering support and for playing a critical role in disseminating accurate information and fostering public understanding of our mandate.
As we conclude this year, let us remember that boundaries are not just lines on a map but instruments of unity, growth, and development. Together, we can make 2025 even more impactful by building bridges of cooperation, ensuring peaceful coexistence, and unlocking the full potential of our nation and region.
Thank you for listening, and I look forward to your questions.
By Gloria Ikibah
Communities in Bende Federal Constituency, Abia State, are beginning to see visible signs of change as Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Benjamin Kalu recently launched a series of public infrastructure projects.
The initiative, which began on Friday, took Kalu across three key wards Bende, Itumbauzo, and Uzuakoli, where he formally opened a number of completed facilities. These include blocks of classrooms, administrative offices, rehabilitated roads, and new boreholes.
Bende Constituency, one of the largest in the country with 13 wards, has long grappled with infrastructure gaps. The newly delivered projects are seen as part of a broader effort to close those gaps and raise the standard of living in the area.
Residents say the projects are already making a difference in both school attendance and ease of movement between villages. Many hope this momentum continues in the months ahead.
…as labour minister call for stricter laws to protect workers
By Gloria Ikibah
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Abbas Tajudeen, has expressed serious concern over the state of workplace safety in Nigeria, calling for urgent legislative action to prevent further injuries and fatalities.
Speaker Abbas made the call during the 2025 World Day for Safety Conference, with the theme: “The Legislative Perspective: Safety First – Building a Safer Future for All Nigerians”, organised by the House Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations at the National Assembly complex on Tuesday.
The Speaker who was represented by Ondo lawmaker, Rep. Oluwatimehin Adelegbe, said that the occasion was a reminder of the need to protect Nigerian workers from occupational hazards.
He said: “Today’s event is very significant, especially in the lives of workers across the globe. It reminds us of the need to guarantee the safety of workers against occupational hazards and fatalities.
“In societies where life is not given the right premium, workers are exposed to various accidents and dangers. Every worker has a right to be protected.”
Speaker Abbas acknowledged the global importance of the World Day for Safety, which was launched in 2003 by the International Labour Organization (ILO), and shared alarming statistics. “About 2.3 million workers lose their lives every year from workplace injuries and health hazards, with about 160 million non-fatal injuries,” he noted.
Abbas lamented the lack of reliable data In Nigeria, and said the most recent figures—238 deaths and 3,461 injuries in the construction industry—date back to between 2014 and 2016. “Even those reports are incomplete,” he added.
He also cited a study at the Federal Medical Centre in Asaba, which found that 52.7 percent of health workers surveyed had experienced needle pricks, while 53.3 percent reported incidents of blood splashes, and linked this to greater risks during outbreaks like Ebola and COVID-19, recalling the sacrifices of Dr. Ameyo Adadevoh and Nurse Justina Ejelonu, who died after coming in contact with the index Ebola case in 2014.
The Speaker blamed many of the injuries in construction sites and criticised the neglect of safety in public buildings.
“Unsafe acts and unsafe working conditions, including lack of personal protective equipment (PPE), hoisting gear, appropriate scaffolds and ladder protection.
“Most public buildings and workplaces in Nigeria are design-built and opened for use without safety checks. Apart from fire extinguishers, you hardly see buildings marked with reflective signs that guide workers in emergencies”, he lamented.
Abbas promised that the House would review and streamline existing laws to improve enforcement and public health protections.
“As the law-making body, the House of Representatives is poised to cause the necessary review of existing laws and seek ways to make them more effective in safeguarding public health and safety”, he added.
The Chairman Committee on Safety Standards and Regulations, Rep. David Idris Zacharias in his welcome address said the event marked a historic moment in our nation’s journey towards building a safer, more resilient society.
He stressed that safety must be prioritized, embedded in every policy, and included in every planning phase of our national projects. Whether it’s construction, road, workplace, environmental, or food safety, these are not peripheral issues—they are central to our well-being.
According to Zacharias, the committee’s mission is not only to pass laws but to ensure they are implemented effectively.
He acknowledged that enforcement gaps, poor awareness, and weak appreciation of safety still plague the country. However, he added, and that these challenges present us with immense opportunities to innovate, collaborate, and learn from others.
The committee chairman therefore called for partnerships with businesses, labour unions, NGOs, and the public.
He promised stronger enforcement, increased funding, more monitoring, and public awareness campaigns.
“Safety must be everyone’s concern. From the smallest corner shop to the largest industrial complex, we all have a role to play. We envision a future where safety is embedded in every organisation’s culture, every construction project, and every government policy,” he said.
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, in his message called for stronger legislation and cooperation among stakeholders to build a safer work environment for all Nigerians.
He also emphasised that while innovation is necessary, it must not come at the cost of workers’ welfare.
He said: “The theme of today’s conference, The Legislative Perspective: Building a Safer Future for All Nigerians, highlights the critical role of legislation in helping to shape a resilient and future-ready occupational safety and health framework.
“Legislation is central to navigating the digital frontier responsibly; ensuring that innovation does not erode the foundational rights, dignity, and welfare of the Nigerian worker.
“The safety of our workers must be anchored on secure technologies, sound data protection, and inclusive policy frameworks that uphold international labour standards”.
Dr. Dingyadi also stressed the importance of collaboration through the tripartite model involving government, employers, and workers’ organizations, to ensure policies are both enforceable and inclusive.
He further acknowledged delays in reviewing labour laws but said progress had been made, and called for unity across all sectors to build a lasting culture of safety.
“Year 2024 marked significant progress with the publication of Nigeria’s revised OSH Country Profile and the Federal Executive Council’s approval of landmark OSH regulations such as the Construction Safety Regulations 2024”, he added.
The Minister also spoke about the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) Bill, which he said was developed through wide consultations.
“The Ministry has led the development of the Occupational Safety and Health Bill, which has been crafted through our distinctive Tripartite Plus framework. We count on the continued partnership of all stakeholders to make this a reality.
“Together, let us rise to the challenge of building a resilient safety culture, underpinned by innovation, inclusivity, and a shared commitment to protecting the lives of all Nigerian workers”, Dingyadi stated.
Reflections of Victor Oluwafemi Walsh in development communication, policy innovation in Africa
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