Border Policing Challenges and the Consequences of Transnational Organised Street begging in Nigeria

Abstract

Illegal border-crossing is a major problem confronting many nations. In Nigeria, the security of land borders is constantly put to test by the influx of transnational organised street beggars. Against this background, this study examined border policing challenges and the consequences of transnational organised street begging in Nigeria. The study was exploratory and cross-sectional in design. The situational crime prevention perspective was adopted as theoretical guide. The key informant interview method was primarily utilised to elicit data from personnel of five relevant law enforcement agencies. Findings revealed that the challenges at controlling illegal entry of transnational organised street beggars are multi-dimensional. Crime perpetrations and involvement in insurgency are among the major ways through which transnational organised street beggars threaten Nigeria. The Federal Government of Nigeria is urged to develop necessary mechanisms through which relevant law enforcement agencies can be made more effective at policing the borders and enforcing migration laws.