Leadnaija
The Fifth Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum (LCB Governors’ Forum), aimed at advancing stabilization, peacebuilding, and sustainable development in the region, concluded today with a powerful declaration for renewed cross-border cooperation and environmental sustainability.
The event, held in Maiduguri, Nigeria, brought together leaders from Lake Chad Basin countries, including Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria, as well as representatives from international and regional organizations.Tap Here To Read Full Details
The theme of the forum, “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community,” underscored the commitment to peace and security in the region, particularly in areas affected by Boko Haram and other insurgent groups.
The meeting was officially opened by Nigeria’s Vice President, His Excellency Sen. Kashim Shettima GCON, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR. The forum was convened by the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) with support from the African Union Commission (AUC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
Key figures in attendance included the governors of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States in Nigeria, as well as governors from the Far North region of Cameroon, the Hadjer-Lamis and Lac provinces of Chad, and the Diffa region of Niger. Traditional leaders, civil society organizations, media representatives, and international partners also participated in the three-day gathering.
The LCB Governors’ Forum looked at several critical areas of cooperation and progress, beginning with the recognition of achievements under the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RS SRR). These efforts have led to significant strides in peacebuilding, stabilization, and sustainable development in the Lake Chad Basin, which has been severely impacted by terrorism and environmental degradation.
The forum commended the governments of the Lake Chad Basin countries, regional institutions, and international partners for their continued commitment to stabilization and peacebuilding in the region. It also welcomed the technical validation of the adjusted RS SRR and called on the LCBC Council of Ministers and the AU Peace and Security Council to endorse the revised strategy.
The forum reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with private sector and regional financial institutions to mobilize resources for the strategy. Governors from the affected territories were recognized for their strong political leadership and contributions to the successful implementation of the RS SRR, with a special mention of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) for its role in combatting insurgency, including Boko Haram and ISWAP.
The forum pledged to further support the MNJTF and to neutralize the remaining non-state armed groups across member states. It also underscored the critical need to address the humanitarian challenges faced by vulnerable populations, especially women and children, due to ongoing insecurity and climate-induced crises.
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration with traditional rulers, the forum called for their strengthened involvement in the reconciliation and reintegration processes across the region. It also committed to scaling up climate-resilient initiatives to restore the Lake Chad ecosystem, which has been severely impacted by shrinking water levels. A new focus on youth and women’s engagement in recovery and stabilization efforts was emphasized, ensuring their voices and needs are prioritized in future peacebuilding initiatives.
Recognizing the urgent need for reintegration and rehabilitation of former Boko Haram and ISWAP associates, the forum committed to mobilizing resources for effective programs in these areas. The forum also stressed the importance of combating illicit trade, arms trafficking, and drug abuse, particularly among youth, as part of broader efforts to strengthen regional security.
The forum also expressed appreciation for the technical and financial support from international partners, including the UNDP, the African Union, and the ISG. Notably, the forum highlighted the establishment of the Special Multi-Partner Delivery Fund (SMDF) and the Nexus Funding Facility (NFF), both crucial mechanisms designed to support stabilization, recovery, and resilience across the region.
The governors reaffirmed their commitment to facilitating cross-border trade and economic cooperation, with plans to establish Free Trade Zones and improve infrastructure, such as roads connecting Lake Chad Basin countries. These measures are expected to strengthen economic ties and further enhance regional security.
The forum concluded with a renewed commitment to continued collaboration among the governments of the Lake Chad Basin countries, international organizations, and development partners. Acknowledging the achievements made since the forum’s inaugural meeting in 2018, the participants pledged to work together to ensure lasting peace and stability in the region.
The forum also expressed deep gratitude to His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the host governor, His Excellency Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, and the people of Nigeria for their hospitality. The next meeting of the LCB Governors’ Forum is scheduled for 2026 in Niger.
The declaration concluded with a shared vision for rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin, emphasizing peace, security, sustainable development, and regional cooperation as fundamental pillars for a resilient future for the region
