DYNAMICS OF CROSS BORDER AND ITS SECURITY IMPLICATIONS IN WESTAFRICA: NIGERIA- NIGER REPUBLIC EXPERIENCE 1999-2018

Abstract

Numerous border incidences have been a source of irritant between Nigeria-Niger Republic borders. Borders which are created for contact purposes are expected to be harmonious but this is not the case with Nigeria-Niger borders as in many countries that Nigeria share conterminous boundaries with. Bilateral effect between the two countries such as the establishment of Joint Border Patrol is yet to stern tide of the infractions along the border. This is evident in the
smuggling of arms, contraband goods, banditry and many more. This study employed historical research method by using primary and secondary sources. Qualitative approach was adopted by
the study which involved gathering of data from primary and secondary source. Interviews were conducted with those who have directly or indirectly experienced forced migration and human trafficking across the West African sub region. The paper made use of oral and archival sources to analysis the process of forced migration and modern slavery of Nigerians in the West Africa region with the issue in contention. Oral interviews were conducted in Nigeria with the victims of migration. Similar interview was also carried out in Benin and Niger Republic with urban dwellers. The study concludes that cross border migration is an indispensable tool for development, but with adequate security apparatus for the receiving state in order to enjoy the perceived benefits of this trend, not only for Nigeria, but also her proximate neighbours. The study recommends that those who are in corridor of power should take a decisive step to decimate these ugly trends in the West African Region.