NBC urges peaceful resolution in Abia-Akwa Ibom boundary dispute

By Kunle Sanni

The Director-General of the National Boundary Commission (NBC), Surveyor Adamu Adaji, has called for peace and progress in resolving the boundary dispute between Abia and Akwa Ibom States.

Adaji made this appeal during a stakeholders’ meeting on the Abia/Akwa Ibom boundary dispute held in Abuja. The meeting reinforced the Commission’s commitment to achieving a peaceful and lasting settlement.

“This meeting is a crucial step toward fostering understanding and cooperation between Abia and Akwa Ibom States,” Adaji stated.

He acknowledged the difficulties of reaching consensus amid local tensions and legal complexities but emphasized NBC’s dedication to a harmonious outcome.

Representing Akwa Ibom, Deputy Governor Senator (Dr.) Akon Eyakenyi urged affected communities to avoid retaliation as negotiations progress, assuring residents that the government remains focused on a peaceful resolution.

The Akwa Ibom delegation also submitted a position paper recommending stricter boundary delimitation protocols and closer oversight of field activities to prevent further disruptions.

Deputy Governor of Abia State, Engineer Ikwechukwu Emetu, expressed optimism about the meeting’s potential and advocated for retrieving essential field documents to support accurate boundary demarcation. Emetu also called for distinguishing genuine boundary disputes from boundary adjustment requests.

With both states expressing a shared urgency for resolution, the NBC plans to implement actionable steps based on recommendations from previous meetings. The Abuja discussions are expected to bring both states closer to lasting peace, fostering unity and development in the affected areas.

The NBC reaffirmed its neutrality and commitment to justice, expressing hope that the Abuja meeting will lay the foundation for a conclusive settlement of the long-standing dispute.