Niger State Government has inaugurated a 13-member Niger–FCT Boundary Commission to address longstanding border disputes with areas adjoining the Federal Capital Territory.
The commission was inaugurated in Abuja by Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago and mandated to investigate, document and resolve all boundary-related issues between Niger State and the FCT.
The Federal Capital Territory was carved out of parts of North-Central states in 1976, with Niger State contributing about 80 per cent of the land that now constitutes the FCT.
Despite this significant contribution, persistent border challenges remain, largely due to vague demarcations and land ownership disputes.
Governor Bago noted that beyond communal clashes, emerging issues such as the new tax regime and rising insecurity have made clear boundary demarcation imperative.
He urged the Niger–FCT Boundary Commission to work closely with the FCT authorities and the National Boundary Commission to enable it make informed and practical recommendations on disputed areas.
Responding, the chairman of the commission, Alhaji Baba Sule Bisalla, assured that members would diligently discharge their mandate.
The commission comprises representatives from five key ministries, chairmen of Lapai, Tafa, Gurara and Suleja local government areas, civil society organisations and security agencies.
It is expected that within six months, the commission will develop a border dispute resolution framework and produce a verified historical and geographical map of contested areas.
