January 28, (THEWILL) – The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum, hosted by Yobe State, has completed preparations for the event, set to be held from January 29 to 31 in Maiduguri.
Participants remain hopeful that the insights gained from this event will lead to actionable strategies for achieving sustainable peace and development in the Lake Chad Basin.
This was announced by Alhaji Baba Malam Wali, Chairman of the LOC, at a press briefing on Monday, at the conference hall of the Muhammadu Indimi Learning Centre, University of Maiduguri.
Flanked by the members of the LOC, the secretary to the Yobe state government, Alhaji Baba Malam Wali, said that Yobe State, under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni, is committed to fostering regional cooperation and sustainable development.
“Hosting this forum underscores the state’s dedication to addressing the challenges facing the Lake Chad Basin region.”
The LOC, in collaboration with the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has been working diligently to ensure the smooth running of the event.
“Robust security measures have been put in place to ensure the safety of all delegates.
“Comprehensive health services will be available throughout the forum, and a media centre has been established to facilitate media coverage.”
The forum will focus on the theme, “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community.”
Discussions will address key issues such as regional security, humanitarian assistance, and economic development.
“Nigeria continues to play a central leadership role in promoting stabilisation, peacebuilding, and sustainable development in the Lake Chad Basin region”, Mr Wali emphasised.
He urged all stakeholders, including governments, development partners, civil society organisations, and traditional leaders, to renew their commitment to the Regional Strategy for Stabilisation, Recovery, and Resilience.
“This forum provides a platform to forge actionable partnerships and mobilise the resources needed to transform the Lake Chad Basin into a region of peace, stability, and opportunity”, he stated.
Meanwhile, the Yobe State Government has extended its heartfelt appreciation to the Federal Government, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and other key stakeholders for their support in hosting the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum.
Buni specifically thanked Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) leadership, the African Union, UNDP, and various development partners and media organisations.
According to Wali, the collaborations and support received were instrumental in the success of the forum and the broader regional stabilisation efforts.
The 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum, scheduled to be held from January 29 to 31, 2025, in Maiduguri, Nigeria, aims to bring together leaders from the region to discuss and collaborate on key issues impacting the Lake Chad Basin.
Traditional rulers across communities in the Lake Chad Basin, comprising Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon and the Republic of Niger have resolved to take action towards ending the lingering insecurity in the region.
Speaking during the meeting, the Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and head of mission of the Multinational Joint Task Force, Mamman Nuhu, said traditional rulers are the heartbeat of communities, custodians of history and the closest to the people.
He expressed concern over the quality of education, rising unemployment, and poor infrastructures, among others, which he identified as some of the root causes of insecurity in the region.
“This two-day meeting will enable us to dissect issues, empower traditional rulers and look into the problems of Communities across Lake Chad.
“We will be looking into community-based initiatives, advocacy for projects that promote education, livelihoods and support to communities”, he said.
On his part, the Emir of Fika, who is also the Chairman of Traditional rulers in Yobe state, Dr Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu Idrissa, pointed out that the theme of the meeting highlights the role of community leaders in restoring peace and promoting sustainability.
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has urged eminent traditional leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders to discuss collaborative strategies for addressing the region’s complex challenges.
In his opening remarks, Mohammed Alkali, the MD/CEO of the NEDC, highlighted the vital role of traditional rulers in promoting peace, resolving conflicts, and preserving cultural heritage.
He noted that despite challenges like environmental degradation, displacement, and security concerns, the Lake Chad Basin holds immense potential for recovery and sustainable development.
“Your leadership is the cornerstone of our shared progress. By leveraging your wisdom, authority, and deep understanding of local dynamics, we can create impactful solutions that address our immediate challenges and secure a prosperous future for generations to come”, Alkali emphasised.
This two-day workshop is organised ahead of the Lake Chad Governors Forum, to facilitate key discussions on enhancing collaboration between traditional institutions and public services, managing conflicts between displaced populations and host communities, promoting social cohesion, and developing sustainable natural resource management approaches.
As part of its mandate, the NEDC reaffirms its commitment to partnering with traditional institutions to promote regional stability, economic recovery, and development.
He noted that this workshop serves as a platform for sharing experiences and best practices, drawing inspiration from the region’s historical resilience and unity.
