Porous Borders and the Challenge of National Integration in Africa: A Reflection of Ghana, Republic of Benin and Nigeria

Abstract

Scientific studies have revealed that most African countries experience persistent cases of uncontrollable kidnapping cases and proliferation of weapons due to porous borders leading to the problem of national integration. Countries like Ghana, Republic of Benin and Nigeria have witnessed the aforementioned issues which have raised concerns among policy makers and international bodies. While a lot of literature has interrogated this issue from the dimensions of Western powers and colonisation, the problem of porous borders and national integration among African countries has become a recurring decimal, and this has created a negative image among African states in the international system, hence this study. Consequently, this study adopted a qualitative research mechanism through the use of interview guide which was analysed with the use of content analysis. However, the study revealed that misrepresentation of goals and parochial interests among African political leaders have led to the surge of migration among Africans as tool for survival. African leaders have overemphasised the need for regional developmentagainst the negative effects of such decisions which have been the root cause of criminality of the recipient states. Discourse of any type of integration should entail capacity development and reformation of existing institutions to world standard. This,among others, will reduce the level of brain drain and educate or enlighten migrants of all categories, leading to development.