Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation between local governments and traditional authorities along their shared borders.
The agreement, signed on August 18, 2025, formalised collaboration under the African Union Convention on Cross-Border Cooperation, the ECOWAS Cross-Border Cooperation Initiatives, and the Nigeria–Benin Cross-Border Cooperation Agreement.
According to a statement from Efe Ovuakporie, Head of Information and Public Relations at the National Boundary Commission (NBC), the MoU provides a framework for engagement between Nigeria’s border local governments and Benin’s communes, with traditional rulers also playing a key role.
NBC Director-General, Adamu Adaji, who led Nigeria’s delegation to the signing ceremony, said the agreement is designed to address pressing security and socio-economic challenges in border communities while restoring historic cultural ties fractured by colonial boundaries.
“The MoU is a grassroots-driven instrument that aligns with continental and regional frameworks while providing practical solutions to the everyday realities of border dwellers,” Adaji said.
He assured that the Federal Government is committed to ensuring the pact delivers concrete results.
“This is not just a document. It is a pledge to our people that we will work together, across borders, to build safer, stronger, and more prosperous communities,” he added.
The MoU also sets the stage for progress in the delimitation and demarcation of the Nigeria–Benin boundary, with traditional rulers expected to play pivotal roles in defusing tensions and mediating disputes.
Idris Mohammed, Chairman of Baruten Local Government Area in Kwara State, described the agreement as a long-awaited step towards addressing border residents’ struggles.
“This MoU is a message of hope that their challenges are now at the centre of bilateral cooperation,” Mohammed said.
“Our people have lived with insecurity, disrupted trade, and cultural isolation for too long.”
From the Beninese side, Mayor of Malanville Commune, Joseph Ahoyo, praised the pact for empowering local communities.
“National agreements are important, but without grassroots participation, implementation often stalls. This MoU is unique because it empowers communes and traditional authorities to play an active role in shaping the future of our shared border,” Ahoyo said.
The agreement also highlighted the economic potential of border areas, outlining opportunities for joint initiatives in trade, agriculture, infrastructure, and cultural exchange, all aimed at boosting livelihoods and advancing regional integration in line with ECOWAS objectives.
The Nigerian delegation included representatives from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice, senior NBC officials, and chairmen from six border states; Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos with diplomatic backing from Nigeria’s Embassy in Cotonou.
Officials from both countries said implementation will begin immediately, starting with Joint Dialogue Platforms and pilot programmes in security cooperation, economic development, and cultural revival.
