By: Imo Thomas -Umuahia.
The Coalition of Nigerian Youth Leaders, CONYL, the umbrella body of youth groups drawn across the six geopolitical zones fully supports the urgent call made by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, for the fencing of Nigeria’s borders as a critical step towards curbing the movement of terrorists and mitigating transborder crimes.
The group made the call in a press release signed by comrade Goodluck Ibem and made available to our reporter in Umuahia on Monday.
“In light of the growing security challenges facing the nation, it is paramount that comprehensive measures are implemented to secure our borders and protect the integrity of our territorial space.
“General Musa’s proposal highlights the pressing need for a fortified border defense strategy, which would significantly reduce unlawful entry into the country and hinder the activities of criminal elements,”the release stated.
The group said that terrorist activities and transborder crimes in Nigeria is a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize national security and explore effective solutions.
They called for border fencing, the establishment of a comprehensive database of Nigerian citizens and foreigners.
“This database will enhance the government’s capability to track, monitor, and apprehend individuals engaged in criminal activities within our borders.
“By creating a systematic approach to citizen and foreigner registration, the government will be better equipped to respond to security threats promptly.
“Securing our borders is not just a matter of maintaining national integrity; it is a matter of protecting the lives of our citizens. We must act decisively and invest in the resources needed to implement these strategies.”
The group called on government at all levels and the populace at large to support General Musa’s initiative, adding that together, “we can work towards a safer Nigeria for everyone”.
They equally urged relevant authorities to fast-track the implementation of these recommendations and allocate the necessary resources to achieve these goals.
