By Emmanuel Kwada
Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has raised alarm over the country’s deteriorating security situation, attributing it to inadequate funding and porous borders.
Speaking at a recent event, the minister revealed the dire state of Nigeria’s border security, stating, “For every terrorist Nigeria kills, 20 more enter,” highlighting the overwhelming challenge faced by the nation’s security forces.
Tunji-Ojo criticized the 2025 budget allocation for the Nigeria Immigration Service, noting that less than ₦10 billion has been earmarked to secure over 4,000 kilometers of land borders. He described the funding as grossly inadequate, arguing that it severely hampers efforts to curb the influx of terrorists and other criminal elements.
“Nigeria has over 4,000km of borders, but Immigration is expected to protect it with less than ₦10bn? Our security architecture is collapsing, and terrorists are cashing in,” he said.
Nigeria has over 4,000km of borders, but Immigration is expected to protect it with less than ₦10bn? Our security architecture is collapsing, and terrorists are cashing in
The minister pointed out that the country’s 4,000+ km of land borders remain largely unsecured due to chronic underfunding of the Immigration Service. This vulnerability, he warned, allows terrorists to exploit Nigeria’s porous borders, exacerbating the nation’s security crisis.
“Underfunding has left the Immigration Service unable to secure the country effectively. We need urgent reform to prevent growing threats,” Tunji-Ojo emphasized.
The minister’s remarks come amid rising concerns over escalating terrorist activities in Nigeria, with insurgents taking advantage of weak border controls to infiltrate the country. He called for a significant overhaul of the nation’s security framework, urging increased budgetary allocations and strategic investments in technology and personnel to strengthen border protection.
Underfunding has left the Immigration Service unable to secure the country effectively. We need urgent reform to prevent growing threats
Tunji-Ojo’s statements have sparked widespread debate, with many Nigerians expressing frustration over the government’s handling of security challenges. Analysts and citizens alike are calling for immediate action to address the funding gaps and bolster national security to prevent further loss of lives and property.
The Ministry of Interior has yet to announce specific plans to address the crisis, but the minister’s comments underscore the urgent need for comprehensive reforms to tackle Nigeria’s porous borders and the growing threat of terrorism.
