Nigeria, Benin Republic begin talk on settlement of border dispute

Governor Atiku Bagudu of Kebbi on Thursday began a 3-day official visit to Benin Republic, to dialogue with the country’s authority on amicable settlement of border dispute with Nigeria.

The visit was on the instruction of Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari, who had earlier discussed the matter with his Beninois counterpart, Yayi Boni, during his recent visit to the county.

The two countries are having dispute over ownership of some settlements in Bagudo Local Government of Kebbi in Nigeria and Maladil in Benin.

Bagudu was accompanied on the visit by Benin Republic’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Muhutalo Laleye; Director General, National Boundary Commission, Mohammed Ahmed; and some consular officials.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the delegation was received at the Nigeria/Benin Republic border at Illo by that country’s Prime Minister, Lionel Zinson, before moving to Cotonou for the meeting.

Mr. Bagudu expressed the hope that the meeting would find lasting solution to the problem, so as to reduce tension and avert violence between communities in the border areas.

The governor pledged to construct a road to link the two countries, as part of efforts to enhance social and economic relations.

Mr. Laleye also expressed the hope that the meeting would amicably resolve the border dispute.

(NAN)