The 2025 World Border Security Congress, held from March 25 to 27 in Madrid, Spain, convened global experts to address pressing challenges in border management. Among the notable participants was the West African Action Network on Small Arms (WAANSA) Nigeria, led by its Director of Programs, George-Okoli Francisco Chidi. WAANSA Nigeria’s involvement underscored the organization’s commitment to combating drug and human trafficking, particularly within the West African context.
WAANSA Nigeria’s Active Participation
WAANSA Nigeria played a pivotal role in the congress, with George-Okoli Francisco Chidi delivering a presentation titled “Challenges and Strategies in Securing Nigeria’s Borders Against Drug & Human Trafficking.” His insights highlighted the complexities of Nigeria’s border security landscape and the multifaceted approaches required to address them. Chidi emphasized the importance of inter-agency collaboration, community engagement, and the integration of technology in curbing illicit activities across borders.
Key Highlights from the Congress
The congress featured a series of workshops and plenary sessions focusing on various aspects of border security. One such session, the Africa Workshop, centered on “Leveraging Technology, Cooperation, and Humanitarian Approaches to Border Security in Africa.” Organized by the African Young People Support Centre (AYPSC), De La Colina Charity, and the African Smart Cities Innovation Foundation, the workshop provided a platform for discussing innovative solutions tailored to the African context.
In addition to WAANSA Nigeria, other African representatives included Henry Kumah from the Ghana Immigration Service, who addressed human smuggling and trafficking in Ghana. These sessions facilitated knowledge exchange and fostered regional cooperation among African nations facing similar border security challenges.
Emphasis on Technological Integration
A recurring theme throughout the congress was the integration of advanced technologies in border management. Sessions delved into topics such as AI-enhanced mobile surveillance systems, biometric applications in modern border control, and open-source intelligence tools. These discussions underscored the necessity of adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance situational awareness and operational efficiency in border security operations.
Advocacy and Collaborative Efforts
Beyond the congress, WAANSA Nigeria, in collaboration with the Global Peace Advocacy and Empowerment Initiative, has been proactive in advocating for strengthened international border security measures. In a joint statement, they urged the United Nations to intensify efforts in securing international borders and addressing poverty, noting that economic hardships often drive individuals toward illicit activities such as arms trade and drug trafficking. They highlighted the need for political will among state actors to bolster security institutions and engage civil societies in developing comprehensive strategies to combat these challenges.Blueprint
Conclusion
WAANSA Nigeria’s participation in the 2025 World Border Security Congress exemplifies its dedication to addressing border security issues through collaboration, innovation, and advocacy. By engaging with international stakeholders and contributing to critical discussions, the organization continues to play a vital role in shaping effective border management policies and practices in Nigeria and the broader West African region.
For more detailed information on the congress and WAANSA Nigeria’s initiatives, you can visit the World Border Security Congress official website and review the event news section.