Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, says that Nigeria’s border with Niger Republic is the most open and dangerous. He believes the only way to stop terrorists from entering through that area is by building a fence.

He explained that terrorist groups like ISWAP and Boko Haram usually enter Nigeria through the Niger border. These groups mostly target Nigeria when they plan attacks.

General Musa made these comments during an interview on Arise News. He talked about Nigeria’s many security problems and said closing the borders is one solution.

He said that his analysis of the Sahel region shows that Nigeria is the main target for most of the terrorists. Even though attacks have happened in Burkina Faso and Benin Republic, they are very close to Nigeria, and the terrorists often cross into Nigeria to cause harm.

Musa said Nigeria is surrounded by French-speaking countries that don’t have the same beliefs and systems. This difference makes it hard to work together and protect Nigeria properly. That’s why he believes Nigeria must protect its own borders.

He added that some people think fencing the border would cost too much, but he disagrees. According to him, saving lives is more important than money. He said, “What is money if you are dead?”

General Musa also suggested that Nigeria can use cameras, drones, and other tools to guard the fences. This means fewer soldiers will be needed at the borders, and they can be used in other places.

He stressed that the most urgent area to fence is the border with Niger Republic. He said that’s where many terrorists, including Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, are coming from.

He suggested that each state along the border should begin building their part of the fence at the same time. That way, the whole project can move quickly and cover more areas.

Recently, over 200 people were killed in Yelwata, a community in Benue State. The attackers are believed to be foreign fighters who likely entered Nigeria through these open and unsafe borders.