Porto Novo, Benin Republic - 7th March 2024
In a monumental step towards fostering stronger bilateral ties and enhancing socio-economic cooperation between the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Benin, the Advocacy Group for the Establishment of the Nigeria-Benin Permanent Joint Commission spearheaded a landmark meeting in Porto Novo, the capital of Benin Republic. The meeting, attended by representatives from both countries, aimed to establish a structured platform for strategic reflection and dynamic cooperation.
Representatives from all six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, along with private sector leaders and community heads, converged in Porto Novo to engage in constructive dialogue. Notably, the event saw active participation from key stakeholders, including community leaders from border regions, such as the representative of the Akran of Badagry and the Oba of Kika in Benin Republic.
Stakeholders from Lagos State, Ogun State, Oyo State, Kwara State, Niger State, and Kebbi State in Nigeria were well represented. The esteemed representatives included the Oba of Badagry (Lagos State), the Okere of Saki (Oyo State), the Emir of Yasikira (Kwara State), and the head of the district of Kamba (Kebbi State). Regrettably, community leaders from Ogun State and Niger State were unable to attend due to technical logistical issues.
During the meeting, four committees were established to address crucial topics, including the necessity of strategic cooperation, shared economic prosperity, free movement of people and goods, and cross-border security. After extensive deliberations, the stakeholders unanimously adopted a series of resolutions aimed at consolidating bilateral cooperation and promoting mutual prosperity.
Key Resolutions Include:
- Adoption of a joint act of recognition for the Joint Permanent Advocacy Forum Nigeria-Benin.
- Reform of ECOWAS regulations to facilitate bilateral measures regarding the free movement of people and goods.
- Resumption of joint patrols along the Nigeria-Benin borders.
- Establishment of a framework for consultation among local elected officials and traditional leadership to combat insecurity.
- Creation of an economic monitoring committee to prevent trade crises and border closures.
- Implementation of synergistic actions for infrastructure development and economic collaboration.
- Digitization of agreed-upon checkpoints and closure of unofficial entry points.
The Advocacy Group commends the proactive engagement and commitment demonstrated by all stakeholders towards fostering mutual prosperity and security. The resolutions adopted represent a significant milestone in the journey towards establishing the Nigeria-Benin Permanent Joint Commission and fostering enduring cooperation between the two nations.
