Porous Borders: Vice President Kashim Shettima Addresses Security Challenges and Border Community Development

In a meeting with the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Vice President Kashim Shettima highlighted the need to address the role of border communities in changing Nigeria’s security landscape.

He acknowledged that most of the country’s security challenges stem from poor border security, with the free flow of light weapons and ammunition across the borders.

Shettima emphasized the importance of border communities in national security and pledged continued support for their development needs.

He also stressed the need for residents of these communities to feel a sense of belonging as Nigerians, as they face challenges such as insecurity and lack of basic amenities.

The Vice President assured the government’s commitment to improving access to healthcare and other essential services for the residents of border communities.

He also expressed the government’s commitment to securing and developing these communities to improve the lives of residents and their security.

During the meeting, BCDA Executive Secretary Junaid Abdullahi expressed concerns over the limited resources available to the agency and expressed hope that under Shettima’s leadership, the agency would receive the necessary support to fulfill its mandate.

In response, Shettima urged the BCDA to develop a roadmap for strengthening the agency, highlighting the need for increased government funding.

He emphasized that by addressing development in border communities, Nigeria could reduce rural-urban migration and address most of its security challenges.

As the government continues to address the issues of border security and community development, the Vice President’s commitment to support and strengthen the BCDA is a crucial step towards ensuring a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.