In a bold move towards lasting peace and development, traditional rulers from across the Lake Chad Basin, spanning Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and the Republic of Niger, converged in Maiduguri, Borno State capital, on Monday. The meeting aimed to tackle the region’s lingering insecurity, which has displaced families and claimed lives.
Mamman Nuhu, Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and Head of Mission of the Multinational Joint Task Force, emphasized the critical role traditional rulers play in their communities. “They are the heartbeat of communities, custodians of history, and closest to the people,” he said. Nuhu identified poor education, rising unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure as root causes of insecurity in the region.
The two-day meeting focused on empowering traditional rulers, dissecting regional issues, and exploring community-based initiatives. Dr. Muhammadu Idrissa, Emir of Fika and Chairman of Traditional Rulers in Yobe State, highlighted the importance of community leaders in restoring peace and promoting sustainability.
The meeting paved the way for the upcoming Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum, scheduled for January 27-30, 2025. Under the theme “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community,” governors will outline strategies to address regional instability and foster collaboration.
