Traditional rulers convened in Maiduguri from January 27-28, 2025, on the sidelines of the 5th edition of the Lake Chad Basin Governors' Forum (LCBGF) scheduled for January 29-31, 2025.
By SADIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri –
Traditional Rulers from the Lake Chad Basin region of Nigeria, Chad, Cameron and Niger Republics rose from its 5th regional forum meeting with a resolution to tackle the lingering security challenges beclouding the region for over a decade.
Speaking on Monday during the meeting in Maiduguri, the Borno State’s capital, the Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), who is also the Head of Mission of the Multinational Joint Task Force, Mamman Nuhu, said the traditional rulers are the heartbeat of communities, custodians of history and the closest to the people.
Nuhu, however, lamented on the level and quality of education, illiteracy, rising rate of unemployment, and poor basic infrastructural facilities and amenities in the region.
The Executive Secretary also blamed the security challenges in the region due certain identified factors or root causes while suggesting for immediate action to curtail the menace .
“This two-day meeting will enable us to dissect issues, empower traditional rulers and look into the problems of Communities across Lake Chad.
On his part, the Emir of Fika, who is also the Chairman of Traditional rulers in Yobe State, Dr Muhammadu Idrissa, pointed out that the theme of the meeting “Fostering Sustainable Peace Through Traditional Rulers in the Lake Chad Basin”, highlights the role of community leaders in restoring peace and promoting
“We will be looking into community-based initiatives, advocacy for projects that promote education, livelihoods and support to communities”, he said.
He appreciated Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni for playing host to the traditional rulers as part of the activities scheduled for the upcoming meeting of Lake Chad Basin governors.
NATIONAL ACCORD reports that the event 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,” the Lake Chad Governors are expected to outline strategies for addressing regional instability and fostering collaboration.
