POROUS FRONTIERS: BORDER CONTROL AND NATIONAL SECURITY ALONG THE NIGERIA–NIGER BORDER, 2015–2025

This study examines border control and its implications for national security along the Nigeria–Niger border between 2015 and 2025. Using a descriptive qualitative design combining key informant interviews with security personnel and documentary analysis, the study investigates the nature of border management practices, their effects on national security, the operational challenges confronting border agencies, and the responses of the Nigerian government. Applying a transnationalism framework, the study argues that these dynamics reflect the diminishing capacity of the Nigerian state to fully govern cross-border interaction under globalization conditions. Findings show that the Nigeria–Niger border remains porous despite the presence of multiple security agencies, facilitating smuggling, human trafficking, arms proliferation, and armed group infiltration. This porosity is sustained by inadequate funding and personnel, insufficient patrol equipment, weak inter-agency coordination, corruption among border officials, and the informal cross-border economic ties of border communities themselves. The study recommends improved funding and welfare for security personnel, investment in surveillance technology, and stronger bilateral coordination with Niger