The Role of Socio-Cultural Factors in Informal Cross-Border Flows between Borderland Communities of Nigeria and Niger Republic: The Case of Illela-Birni N’konni International Border Communities

This study examines the contributions of socio-cultural factors towards promoting informal cross-border flows between international borders dividing Nigeria and Niger republic. It did so by focusing on the micro zone of Illela (Nigeria) and Birni N’Konni (Niger republic).The study discovered that, despite colonial division, both communities still retain their socio-cultural values and still employ it in fostering their relations outside the official circle. The research concluded that if adequately utilised, informal cross-border flows between the two communities can be used to build a security network beyond the official realm.