Title: Cross-Border Trade and Socio-Economic Transformation in the Mambilla Plateau, Nigeria, 1960-2023
Authors: Dr. Danburam Abdullahi
Kamaladdin Bello
Volume: 10
Issue: 8
Pages: 25-33
Publication Date: 2026/08/28
Abstract:
: This study examines the historical evolution of cross-border trade and its contribution to the socio-economic transformation of the Mambilla Plateau, Nigeria, between 1960 and 2023. It argues that commercial relations across the Nigeria-Cameroon frontier originated from pre-colonial networks of migration, kinship, pastoral mobility and commodity exchange that persisted despite the establishment of an international boundary. Using the historical research method, the study draws on oral evidence, government and administrative records, and relevant secondary literature to reconstruct changes and continuities in cross-border commerce. The findings reveal that agricultural produce, coffee, kola nut, livestock and consumer goods constituted important components of trade, facilitated by farmers, pastoralists, petty traders, commodity assemblers, transporters and merchants operating through markets and commercial centres such as Gembu and Nguroje and frontier communities including Mbamnga, Dorofi and Kan-Iyaka. Cross-border trade contributed to livelihood diversification, employment creation, agricultural commercialisation, market expansion, transportation development and increased inter-community interaction. However, its transformative potential was constrained by poor road infrastructure, inadequate processing and storage facilities, currency fluctuations, costly border procedures, insecurity and weak institutional coordination. The study concludes that the Nigeria-Cameroon frontier functioned not merely as a territorial boundary but also as an important economic space through which communities of the Mambilla Plateau maintained longstanding commercial relationships and participated in wider regional markets. Improved infrastructure, simplified legitimate trade procedures and stronger bilateral cooperation are essential for maximising the developmental potential of cross-border commerce.