“We Haven’t Been Paid for 30 Months” – Border Security Personnel Cry Out

Personnel of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) and Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS) stationed at Nigeria’s land borders have voiced their frustration over the non-payment of their allowances for 30 months. These border officers claim that they have been on assignment for over five years without receiving any of the allowances owed to them, resulting in severe financial difficulties.

Speaking anonymously, one officer described the situation as “miserable,” stating that they had been deployed since the previous administration of President Buhari, and the allowances have not been paid since. Despite enduring tough working conditions in remote areas, including threats from bandits, they remain unpaid. He added that they had initially received allowances on time when the military and police were part of the joint patrol teams, but payment delays started towards the end of the Buhari administration.

The officers highlighted the dangers they face, citing instances where colleagues were kidnapped or killed while travelling. They warned that the lack of payment could lead to some personnel being compromised, although they remain committed to their duties. The officers are urging the authorities to resolve the issue and implement redeployment protocols, as border assignments should not extend beyond a certain duration.

Customs Service Responds

Abdullahi Maiwada, spokesperson for the Nigeria Customs Service, acknowledged the issue and confirmed that a review process is underway. He explained that the joint border patrol, which was restructured in 2019, now involves only the NCS and NIS. He assured that the service is working to address the challenges but noted that no customs officer is being denied their salary unless under disciplinary action.

Immigration Silent

Efforts to get a statement from the Nigeria Immigration Service have been unsuccessful. NIS spokesperson Kenneth Udo promised to look into the matter but has yet to provide a response.

Government’s Commitment to Border Security

Meanwhile, the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, reiterated the government’s dedication to strengthening border security. In a recent statement, the minister emphasized that securing Nigeria’s borders is a priority, with plans to implement advanced technologies such as drones and satellite imagery to improve border control. He assured that the ministry is committed to addressing long-standing challenges, including personnel welfare.

An Inter-Ministerial Committee on Integrated Border Governance recently presented an interim report to the minister, outlining recommendations to improve border security and governance. The committee visited various border posts and proposed measures aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s territorial integrity. The minister pledged to implement the committee’s recommendations as part of President Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to internal security.