Chief of Defence Staff General Chris Musa has expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity in Nigeria, calling for the physical fencing of the country’s borders to contain the menace. According to him, this measure is necessary to prevent foreign elements from gaining unchecked access into the country, which he believes is a significant contributor to Nigeria’s security challenges.

Speaking at a security conference, General Musa emphasized that fencing Nigeria’s borders would significantly improve the nation’s ability to tackle its enduring security issues. “It is not an impossible task. Other countries have done it when faced with severe insecurity and external aggression,” he noted.

The CDS cited examples of countries that have successfully fenced their borders to achieve peace and security. “Pakistan fenced 1,350 kilometers of border with Afghanistan, and that was the only time they had peace. Saudi Arabia and Iraq, with a 1,400 km border, are completely fenced,” he said. “Can we start thinking of fencing our border? We have 1,500 kilometers with the Niger Republic and 1,900 kilometers with Cameroon.”

General Musa’s proposal highlights the need for Nigeria to take full control of its borders to prevent insecurity. He believes that with the right measures in place, Nigeria can overcome its security challenges and achieve lasting peace. “It is Nigeria that everybody is interested in. That is why we need to secure fully and take control of our borders. It is critical for our survival and sovereignty”.