Governors of the Lake Chad Basin have pledged renewed efforts to tackle security, economic, and environmental challenges in the region, emphasizing the need for cross-border cooperation and sustainable development.
Speaking at the opening of the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum (LCBGF) in Maiduguri, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State highlighted the importance of regional collaboration under the Regional Strategy for Stabilisation, Recovery, and Resilience (RS-SRR).
“This forum serves as an opportunity for us to reflect on the journey since the RS-SRR became operational six years ago. It underscores our unity of purpose and rekindles the brotherhood among member states,” Buni stated.
With the theme “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community,” the forum brings together stakeholders from Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon to assess progress and strengthen policies aimed at stabilizing the region.
Buni commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to regional peace and development, adding:
“As the largest stakeholder in the Lake Chad Basin, hosting 74 percent of the affected population, our leadership reflects a profound sense of responsibility to address shared challenges that transcend borders.”
Governors Emphasize Cross-Border Cooperation
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State stressed that fostering cross-border cooperation is crucial to sustaining peace and development in the region.
“Borno has remained committed to fostering peace and regional stability since the establishment of the LCBGF,” Zulum said.
He outlined his administration’s $2.7 billion multi-year strategy aimed at supporting 5.5 million people, including displaced persons and refugees, through improved infrastructure, security, and economic opportunities.
He also acknowledged partnerships with UNHCR, UNICEF, FAO, the World Food Programme, and IOM, which have been instrumental in rehabilitating communities affected by insurgency and displacement.
Fintiri Warns of Climate Crisis Impact
Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State raised concerns over the environmental crisis in the Lake Chad Basin, calling for urgent intervention.
“Recent reports from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) have revealed that Lake Chad has shrunk by 90 percent in the last 60 years due to climate change, irrigation practices, dam construction, and increasing population,” he said.
Fintiri warned that the declining water resources are fueling poverty, competition for land, and even recruitment into violent extremist groups.
“This environmental degradation is not merely an ecological concern; it is a driver of conflict and terrorism,” he emphasized, urging regional and international stakeholders to take decisive action.
Path Forward: Stabilisation and Development
With over 1,000 delegates in attendance, the forum is expected to review progress made so far and explore pathways for enhanced regional cooperation, sustainable development, and long-term peace.
The discussions will also focus on securing funding for RS-SRR projects, addressing drug abuse and violent extremism, and accelerating the implementation of Territorial Action Plans (TAPs).
As the Lake Chad Basin faces complex socio-economic and security challenges, the governors reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening governance, fostering dialogue, and promoting sustainable development to rebuild the region.
