Tinubu Opens 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum, Calls for Unity and Regional Cooperation
By Innocent Madaki
Borno State Targets $2.7 Billion Recovery Plan for 5.5 Million Displaced Persons.
The 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum has officially commenced in Maiduguri, Borno State, bringing together key stakeholders to address the region’s pressing challenges, including security, development, and economic recovery.
Themed -Rebuilding the Lake Chad: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community,” the high-profile event is hosting governors from the eight states and provinces of the Lake Chad Basin, traditional rulers, development and humanitarian organizations, and civil society groups.
Tinubu Urges Unity and Regional-Led Solutions President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, declared the forum open, emphasizing the need for stronger regional cooperation to counter non-state actors exploiting weak borders and fragile economies.
“We must not allow geopolitical tensions across the world to sow discord among us, nor should we permit ourselves to become tools in any proxy agenda. The salvation of the Lake Chad region is neither in Europe nor in the Americas. It lies in the hands of all those gathered here today,” Tinubu stated. He called for a multifaceted approach to address insecurity, poverty, and youth unemployment, warning that Africa’s young population must be transformed into a force for positive change rather than conflict.
Borno State Commits 15% of Budget to Recovery Borno State Governor Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum announced a $2.7 billion durable solutions strategy for 2025-2027, aimed at assisting 5.5 million victims of the Boko Haram insurgency.
“Our strategy targets approximately 5.5 million people, including 2 million internally displaced persons (IDPs), 500,000 refugees, and 3 million other displaced individuals,” Zulum stated.
This recovery plan, backed by 15% of Borno State’s annual budget, focuses on peacebuilding, social cohesion, infrastructure development, and agricultural transformation.
Zulum highlighted the successful completion of projects like the Banki Market Project, which has revitalized economic opportunities and strengthened cross-border trade corridors.
Agriculture and Infrastructure as Pillars of Recovery. The governor emphasized that agriculture is central to Borno’s post-conflict strategy, with investments in: – Irrigation systems – Resilient crop production – Support for smallholder farmers to boost food security Zulum described the Lake Chad Basin as the future of Africa, with its youthful and rapidly growing population capable of driving economic progress and political leadership.
Yobe Governor Highlights Cross-Border Cooperation Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni praised the Governors’ Forum as a vital platform for strengthening governance, promoting regional dialogue, and addressing instability.
He stressed that the region faces multiple challenges, including demographic growth, security threats, climate change, and limited infrastructure, requiring joint efforts for sustainable development.
High-Level Attendance and Commitment to Peace. The forum witnessed participation from top government officials, including: – National Assembly members , Ministers of Agriculture and Livestock Development – Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff – United Nations agencies -The Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, International development organizations.
The event reaffirmed commitments to peace, security, and economic revitalization, with key discussions focused on cross-border collaboration, humanitarian aid, and long-term stability in the Lake Chad Basin.
Final Thoughts: A Pivotal Moment for Regional Stability With over 5.5 million people in need of durable solutions, the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum serves as a crucial moment for regional leaders to redefine policies, foster cooperation, and implement sustainable strategies for long-term recovery. As President Tinubu stressed, the future of the region lies in the hands of its people and leaders not external influences.
The success of these commitments will depend on strong political will, strategic investments, and continuous engagement with local communities.
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