Which nations share a border with Nigeria?

Which countries border Nigeria?

Nigeria is a country located in West Africa, with a total population of over 200 million people. It is bordered by seven countries and has a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The countries that share a border with Nigeria are Benin, Niger, Chad, Cameroon, Togo, Burkina Faso, and the Atlantic Ocean.

Benin: Nigeria’s western neighbor

Benin is a small West African country that shares a border with Nigeria to the west. The border between Nigeria and Benin is approximately 773 km long and is marked by the Okpara River. The two countries have a long history of trade and cultural exchange, with many ethnic groups living on both sides of the border. In recent years, there have been efforts to improve cross-border trade and cooperation, including the construction of a joint border post in Seme-Krake.

Niger: Nigeria’s northern neighbor

Niger is a landlocked country located to the north of Nigeria. The border between the two countries is approximately 1,500 km long and is marked by the Niger River. The two countries have a long history of economic and cultural ties, with many Nigerians living and working in Niger. The border region is also home to a number of nomadic herding communities who travel between the two countries with their livestock.

Chad: Nigeria’s northeastern neighbor

Chad is a landlocked country located to the northeast of Nigeria. The border between the two countries is approximately 87 km long and is marked by the Chari River. The two countries have a shared history of political instability and conflict, with cross-border raids by armed groups a common occurrence. However, in recent years, there have been efforts to improve cross-border cooperation, particularly in the areas of trade and security.

Cameroon: Nigeria’s southeastern neighbor

Cameroon is a country located to the southeast of Nigeria. The border between the two countries is approximately 1,690 km long and is marked by the Cross River. The two countries have a shared history of cultural and economic ties, with many Cameroonians living and working in Nigeria. The border region is also home to a number of ethnic groups who share a common language and culture.

Atlantic Ocean: Nigeria’s southern border

Nigeria’s southern border is formed by the Atlantic Ocean, which stretches along the country’s southern coast for approximately 853 km. The coastline is home to a number of coastal communities who rely on fishing and other marine activities for their livelihoods. The country’s offshore oil and gas reserves also contribute significantly to the national economy.

Togo: Nigeria’s southwestern neighbor

Togo is a small West African country located to the southwest of Nigeria. The border between the two countries is approximately 650 km long and is marked by the Mono River. The two countries share a history of economic and cultural ties, with many Togolese living and working in Nigeria. The border region is also home to a number of ethnic groups who share a common language and culture.

Burkina Faso: Nigeria’s northwestern neighbor

Burkina Faso is a landlocked country located to the northwest of Nigeria. The border between the two countries is approximately 809 km long and is marked by the Niger River. The two countries share a history of economic and cultural ties, with many Burkinabe living and working in Nigeria. The border region is also home to a number of nomadic herding communities who travel between the two countries with their livestock.

Border disputes and resolutions

Nigeria has had a number of border disputes with its neighboring countries, particularly over the ownership of borderlands and natural resources. Some of these disputes have resulted in armed conflict, while others have been resolved through diplomatic channels. In recent years, there have been efforts to improve cross-border cooperation and resolve outstanding disputes through peaceful means.

Economic impact of Nigeria’s borders

Nigeria’s borders have a significant impact on the country’s economy, particularly in the areas of trade and migration. The country’s borders are important transit points for goods and people moving between West African countries, and many Nigerians rely on cross-border trade for their livelihoods. However, the porous nature of the borders has also made them vulnerable to smuggling and other illegal activities.

Conclusion: Nigeria’s diverse neighbors

Nigeria’s borders are a reflection of the country’s diverse cultural and economic ties with its neighboring countries. While there have been challenges in the past, there is a growing recognition of the need for cross-border cooperation and peaceful resolution of disputes. As Nigeria continues to develop economically and politically, its relationship with its neighbors will remain an important factor in shaping its future.

References and further reading

"Nigeria-Benin Border", Borderlex, https://borderlex.net/border-study-case-nigeria-benin-border/
"Niger-Nigeria Border", Borderlex, https://borderlex.net/border-study-case-niger-nigeria-border/

"Chad-Nigeria Border", Borderlex, https://borderlex.net/border-study-case-chad-nigeria-border/
"Cameroon-Nigeria Border", Borderlex, https://borderlex.net/border-study-case-cameroon-nigeria-border/
"Togo-Nigeria Border", Borderlex, https://borderlex.net/border-study-case-togo-nigeria-border/