Niger, Nigeria Enhance Security Cooperation to Tackle Arms Trafficking, Safeguard Shared Border

Niger and Nigeria have reached a critical agreement to enhance their security cooperation, focusing on combating arms trafficking and securing their shared border, the Niger Press Agency (NAP) reported.

According to the joint communique released following the meeting of the generals, both nations have committed to deepening their bilateral relations and coordinating their efforts in security matters. The document also reportedly emphasized the importance of dialogue and coordinated action in addressing the common challenges faced by Niger and Nigeria. The two countries agreed to strengthen their strategic partnership, expanding existing cooperation in joint military operations, intelligence sharing, and tactical coordination.

One of the key points of the agreement is the recognition of the serious risks associated with arms trafficking. Both Niger and Nigeria have pledged to unite their efforts to combat this issue, ensuring security along their entire 1,500 km border, the NAP reported. The agreement also reaffirms Nigeria's commitment to maintaining good neighborly relations, with assurances that it will not become a source of destabilization for its neighbors. In return, Niger has expressed its readiness to resume participation in joint operations aimed at addressing security issues along the border.

Additionally, the two countries have agreed to establish a dialogue committee to discuss and address common problems and challenges, with a particular focus on the ongoing threat posed by the terrorist group Boko Haram* in the region. This strengthened partnership between Niger and Nigeria is seen as a crucial step towards enhancing stability and security in the area.

This is an important development considering that relations between Niger and Nigeria worsened after the coup in Niger in July 2023. As a member of ECOWAS, Nigeria condemned the coup and backed sanctions and potential military intervention against Niger's new leadership, leading to diplomatic tensions between the two countries.