5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum Meeting Opens in Maiduguri.

Sam Kaye

The 5th edition of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum meeting has opened yesterday in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital with the Vice President Kashim Shettima representing President Bola Tinubu of Nigeria.

The Forum themed: “Rebuilding the Lake Chad: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community” had in attendance Governors and Administrators of the 8 Provinces and states from both sides of the divide.

Declaring the forum open, President Bola Tinubu called for cooperation and unity among countries in the Lake Chad region for the enhancement of progress and development.

The President, described the real enemies of the region as the non-state actors that exploit weak borders, poor governance and fragile economies to challenge the people’s claim to civilization.

He warned the people of the region not to allow the geopolitical tensions across the world to sow discord among them adding that they should not permit themselves to become tools in any proxy agenda.

Tinubu stressed that the salvation of the Lake Chad region is neither in the hands of Europeans nor the Americans instead it lies in the hands of all those gathered in attendance at the Indimi hall unimaid in the meeting.

The President called for multifaceted approach in addressing the root causes of insecurity, poverty, inequality and lack of opportunities for the millions of young people of the region.

“It is a tragic irony that Africa, a continent with the youngest population in the world, sees its youth become cannon fodder for destructive ideologies and the drivers of conflict. This is the challenge before us: to transform this demographic dividend into a force for good”.he stated.

Zulum, posited that his state Borno has committed 15% of its annual budget for the provision of durable solutions to 5.5 million residents badly affected by Boko Haram insurgency.

“Our own strategy, spanning the years 2025-2027, is backed by a total budget of USD 2.7 billion, with Borno State committing 15% of its annual budget to the cause.

“This strategy targets the needs of approximately 5.5 million people, including 2 million internally displaced people ( IDPs,) 500,000 refugees and 3 million other displaced individuals”, Governor Zulum stated.

The Governor explained that the durable solution strategy is anchored on a government-led, people-centered approach, designed to align with existing national and regional policies, noting that significant achievements in peacebuilding and social cohesion, particularly through dialogue, youth engagement, and the re-establishment of cross-border trade corridors have been recorded.

“Projects like the Banki Market and other related infrastructure have been completed and handed over to the communities, fostering a sense of ownership and providing vital economic opportunities”, he stated.

Zulum emphasized that his administration has prioritized agricultural transformation as a key pillar of recovery strategy, with a focus on irrigation systems, resilient crop production and support for small holder farmers to ensure food security for the people.

Governor Zulum further described the Lake Chad Region as the future of Africa with its youthful and rapidly growing population, adding that the region is positioned to become a major driver of economic progress and political leadership.

“The potential of this region to shape the future of not only Africa but the world at large cannot be overstated, provided we continue to nurture its growth with the right support and strong political will necessary to address its challenges.” He added.

Governor Zulum expressed appreciation to President Tinubu under whose leadership the following is ensured, peace and sustainable development that has enabled our on-going reconstruction, Rehabilitation and resettlement (RRR) efforts in conjunction with United Nations agencies and development partners.

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni described the Forum as a beacon of hope, serving as the cornerstone for strengthening and promoting good governance, cross-border cooperation, dialogue and coordinated action among the basin’s eight territories.

He remarked that commitments made during the meetings are instrumental in shaping policies and interventions that address the root causes of instability and lay the foundation for sustainable development in the region.

The Governor observed that the Lake Chad Basin faces multifaceted challenges that include: growing demography, security threats, limited infrastructure, climate change and socio-economic disparities that demand concerted efforts.

The ceremony was attended by members of the National Assembly, ministers of agriculture and that of Livestock Development, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, United Nations agencies, Executive Secretary Lake Chad Basin Commission and International Development Organisations. (www.krestnews.com).