By Peter Jene, Senior National Correspondent
ABUJA, Nigeria — In a bid to revolutionize the fate of Nigeria’s border communities, Dr. George-Kelly D. Alabo, Director General of the Border Communities Development Agency (BCDA), has embarked on a strategic consultation drive with key stakeholders.
His recent visit to the office of the Comptroller-General of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) underscores the pivotal role he envisions for the NIS in transforming the socio-economic landscape of border regions.
During the courtesy call on Wednesday, 8 May 2024, Dr. George-Kelly emphasized the urgent need for synergy between BCDA and NIS.
He highlighted the unique position of the NIS in identifying and addressing the challenges faced by border community residents.
According to him, this collaboration is essential for the equitable distribution of developmental projects and socio-economic welfare initiatives across all border communities in Nigeria.
“BCDA under my leadership wants to ensure that all border communities are properly taken care of,” asserted Dr. George-Kelly.
He emphasized the strategic importance of border communities as the gateway to the nation, stressing the imperative of addressing their infrastructural and human capital development deficits.
Dr. George-Kelly reiterated BCDA’s commitment to partnering with international donor agencies to actualize their vision for border communities.
In response, the Comptroller-General of NIS affirmed the critical role of border communities in national stability and security.
Acknowledging the significance of BCDA’s vision, the Immigration boss expressed readiness to collaborate closely with BCDA in advancing the development agenda for border regions.
“The doors of NIS are opened for BCDA anytime as long as the development of border communities is concerned,” assured the Comptroller-General.
She commended Dr. George-Kelly and BCDA for their proactive approach, emphasizing the potential of inclusive development initiatives to enhance national stability and prosperity.
The strategic consultation between BCDA and NIS marks a significant step towards addressing the socio-economic challenges plaguing Nigeria’s border communities.
By leveraging the expertise and resources of the Nigerian Immigration Service, BCDA aims to usher in a new era of development and prosperity for residents of border regions.
As both agencies commit to collaboration and synergy, hopes are high for tangible progress and positive transformation in Nigeria’s border communities.
