Nigeria and the Republic of Benin have signed a historic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at strengthening cross-border cooperation at the grassroots level. The agreement which was signed on 18th August 2025 represents a milestone in bilateral relations, deepening collaboration between local government authorities and traditional institutions across the shared frontier.
The MoU was signed under the framework of the African Union Convention on Cross-Border Cooperation, the ECOWAS Cross-Border Cooperation Initiatives, and the Nigeria–Benin Cross-Border Cooperation Agreement. It formalizes cooperation between Chairmen of Nigeria’s Border Local Government Areas and Mayors of Communes in Benin Republic, alongside traditional rulers on both sides of the border.
The primary objective of the agreement is to enhance the resilience of border communities against the rising threats of cross-border crimes. It also seeks to revive historic socio-cultural linkages disrupted by colonial-era demarcations, foster peaceful coexistence, and promote good neighbourliness among border populations.
The MoU will further provide a platform to accelerate the ongoing delimitation and demarcation of the Nigeria–Benin boundary. By empowering local leaders and traditional institutions to engage actively in the process, the agreement is expected to ease tensions, resolve disputes amicably, and promote stability along the frontier.
Beyond peace and security, the MoU highlights the economic and developmental role of border communities. Joint initiatives in trade, agriculture, infrastructure development, and cultural exchanges are envisaged as practical avenues to improve livelihoods and drive regional integration, in line with ECOWAS objectives.
Nigeria’s delegation to the signing ceremony was led by the Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), Surv. Adamu Adaji, and included senior officials from the NBC, the Federal Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Justice, and the Chairmen of Border Local Government Areas from the six affected states of Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, and Lagos. The Nigerian Embassy in Cotonou also provided diplomatic support.
In his remarks, Surv. Adaji described the MoU as “a grassroots-driven instrument that aligns with continental and regional frameworks while providing practical solutions to the everyday realities of border dwellers.” He emphasized Nigeria’s determination to ensure that the agreement moves beyond paper commitments into concrete action that directly benefits communities.
Chairman of Baruten Local Government Area in Kwara State, Hon. Idris Mohammed, who represented Nigeria’s border local government leaders, hailed the agreement as a timely response to longstanding community concerns. “Our people have lived with insecurity, disrupted trade, and cultural isolation for too long,” he said. “This MoU is a message of hope that their challenges are now at the centre of bilateral cooperation.”
From the Beninese side, the Mayor of Malanville Commune, Mr. Joseph Ahoyo, reaffirmed the importance of involving local actors in cross-border governance. “National agreements are important, but without grassroots participation, implementation often stalls,” he observed. “This MoU is unique because it empowers communes and traditional authorities to play an active role in shaping the future of our shared border.”
Traditional rulers were also acknowledged as key partners in the cooperation framework. Their historic roles as custodians of kinship ties and mediators in local disputes provide an additional layer of legitimacy and continuity for the implementation of the agreement.
Officials on both sides emphasized that the MoU will be followed by practical steps, including the establishment of Joint Dialogue Platforms and Pilot Programmes in security cooperation, economic exchanges, and cultural revival. These initiatives are expected to provide early benefits while reinforcing the long-term objectives of peace, development, and integration.
The signing of this MoU signals a renewed chapter in Nigeria–Benin relations. By bridging national policies with local realities, the agreement strengthens bilateral cooperation while serving as a model of community-driven cross-border governance for West Africa.
Surv. Adaji concluded with a call to sustained commitment “What we have signed today 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.”
Signed
Efe Ovuakporie
Head Information and Public Relations Unit
22/08/25
