The Permanent Secretary, Nigeria-Benin Republic Inter-Border Forum, Dr. Bonny Abisogun Botoku, has urged Nigeria and the Republic of Benin to deploy diplomacy, cultural ties and traditional institutions to resolve border conflicts and promote regional integration.
Dr. Botoku, popularly known as Dr. Boni, made the call on Wednesday at a training programme organised by the Edo-Delta Journalists Association held at Ogolor in the Port-Novo area of Benin Republic.
He said both countries share deep historical, cultural and social ties that should be leveraged to prevent disputes and promote peaceful coexistence.
According to him, communities along the border often regard themselves as one people despite the international boundary, noting that colonial-era demarcations divided people with common ancestry, traditions, family relationships and economic interests.
He said authorities must therefore consider local realities when enforcing border regulations.
While acknowledging governments’ responsibility to protect their territories, Dr. Boni cautioned that border management should not unnecessarily harass residents and travellers who meet entry requirements.
“Free movement of people and goods remains essential to regional integration but must be balanced with legitimate security concerns. Free movement does not mean that we should not know who is coming into the country, what they are coming to do and how long they intend to stay,” he said.
He urged security personnel to treat travellers professionally and with respect for human dignity after they had fulfilled immigration requirements.
Dr. Botoku advocated closer cooperation among security agencies, traditional rulers, local government officials and other stakeholders in both countries.
He said traditional institutions possess valuable knowledge of local customs, community relationships and historical grievances that could help resolve disputes without force, urging both governments to engage traditional leaders regularly on security, peaceful coexistence and regional integration.
He also called for border communities to be viewed as potential centres of economic growth rather than merely security challenges, adding that cultural festivals, arts and joint economic activities could strengthen relationships, stimulate commerce and create opportunities for residents.