Fight Insecurity, Corruption Along Your Borders, AU Urges

The African Union has admonished Nigeria and other member states to fight insecurity and corruption along their international boundaries as part of effective border security management.

The continental body also called on the states to share actionable intelligence with their neighbours to enhance security at the borders.

These were the highlights of the planning workshop on the implementation of the African Union Border Programme in the West African region held in Abuja from November 19-21,2019.

A communique issued at the end of the workshop on Friday asked AU member states to consider the integration of regional and sub-regional organizations that have a relationship with border management within their territories.

It said, “Member states should design and develop a cross-border security plan along their common boundaries.

”They should endeavour to collaborate with the media (radio stations, news agencies) along their border communities with a view to carrying out continuous sensitization of their border communities on the issues of promotion of free movement of persons, goods and services and fighting against harassment and bribery.”

The AUBP also recommended that member states should fast-track the ratification of the Niamey Convention, adding that they should also involve the civil society, youth, and women in cross-border cooperation matters.