An Exploratory Assessment of Interstate Boundary Disputes in Nigeria

The introduction of western model of boundary demarcation by Britain during the colonial era and its sustenance by successive governments in post-colonial Nigeria appears to have made interstate boundary dispute rampant in Nigeria. Successive post-colonial administrations have continued to create more administrative units which in turn implied reinforcing colonial boundaries or demarcating new one. This paper examines the nature/status (disputed or otherwise) of the various interstate boundaries in Nigeria as well as investigates the strategies adopted by National Boundary Commission (NBC) in managing interstate boundary disputes in Nigeria.  This study revealed that out of eighty six (86) interstate boundaries in Nigeria, forty six (46) of these boundaries are disputed; the study further revealed that the NBC’s Interstate Boundaries Technical Committee manages boundary disputes between states in Nigeria through Joint Meeting of Officials (JMO), Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) and Joint Field Team (JFT). Keywords: Boundary, Dispute, Demarcation, Interstate, National Boundary Commission

Boundary Conflict Management Strategies in Nigeria: A Critique

The creation of states and administrative sub-units aimed at further developing rural areas in Nigeria has generated new challenges. Ethnic, religious, intra and inter-state boundary conflicts over land ownership and usage, mineral resources royalties and grazing rights between contiguous communities have become prevalent. These conflicts have resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property and internal displacements. This study examined boundary conflicts management strategies in Nigeria within the context of Adadama and Amagu communities border conflict between Cross River and Ebonyi states. Primary data for the study was generated from twenty-five key informant and in-depth interviews with relevant officers of government institutions including the National Boundary Commission, Office of the Surveyor-General of the Federation, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution. Representatives of Cross River and Ebonyi states governments as well as community, women and youth leaders in the two communities. Secondary data for the study were retrieved from relevant publications. Findings indicate that institutional strategies for border conflicts management in Nigeria are strictly administrative mechanisms devoid of win-win outcomes which is the hallmark of conflict management. However, in the specific case of Adadama and Amagu, the two communities established an indigenous Peace Committee to manage grievances arising from the border dispute. The indigenous strategy enhanced tolerance and peaceful co-existence in the two communities. The study recommends hybridization of institutional and indigenous mechanisms in the management of border conflicts in Nigeria. Keywords: Boundary, conflict management strategies, internal boundary DOI: 10.7176/RHSS/13-16-02 Publication date:September 30th 202

Boundary and Land-Related Violent Conflicts and Its Implications on the Education of the Female Child in Igboland: A Case Study of Amagu-Adadama and Aguleri-Umuleri Conflicts

This paper examines boundary and land-related conflicts and its implication on the education of the female child in Igboland using the Amagu-Adadama between Ebonyi and Cross River states and the Umuleri-Aguleri land conflict as case studies.  The paper provides a historical background insight of the conflicts. In addition, the paper discusses the concept of female child education, the need for education of the female child in Igboland and the implications of boundary and land-related conflicts on the education of the girl-child and finally, recommends that government and  families should take steps towards eradicating all obstacles to female child education

Cross Border Armed Banditry & Its Implications On Nigeria’s National Security

Within the last decade, Nigeria has grappled with increased insecurity due to Boko Haram terrorism/insurgency, armed banditry, cattle rustling, kidnapping, among others.  These have resulted in loss of lives, destruction of property, fear and tension across the country. Severally, these issues of insecurity have been attributed to the activities of non-Nigerians who enter the country illegally through the various unofficial borders across the nation. This study examined the phenomenon of cross border armed banditry and its implications on Nigeria National Security. The study deployed the qualitative research model in generating primary data while secondary data was retrieved from books, journals and internet materials. Findings indicate that cross border armed banditry has been triggered and sustained by the neglect of border communities by government, collaboration and partnership between criminals and some residents of border communities. Cross border armed banditry has worsened insecurity and distorted livelihood patterns. Thus, the study recommends a total overhaul of Nigeria’s border security management strategy. Keywords: Armed banditry, Nigeria’s National Security, cross border DOI: 10.7176/IAGS/100-05 Publication date: September 30th 202