Lake Chad Basin: Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment To Regional Cooperation

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening regional cooperation and peaceful coexistence among countries in the Lake Chad Basin.

Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made this known at the 71st Session of the Council of Ministers of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) held in N’Djamena.

According to a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Magnus Eze, the minister describes the Commission as a vital regional platform for promoting environmental sustainability, food security, peace and collective economic stability.

She notes that the Lake Chad Basin remains a shared natural resource and a critical lifeline for more than 40 million people across member states.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu, however, expresses concern over the persistent security challenges in the region. She commends the continued efforts of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and the collaboration among member countries in tackling terrorism and violent extremism within the basin.

The minister also highlights the severe impact of climate change on the lake, describing its rapid shrinkage as one of the most pressing environmental challenges confronting the region.

She therefore calls for scientifically driven solutions aimed at restoring the lake and sustaining the livelihoods of millions who depend on it.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu further conveys the appreciation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Government and people of Nigeria for the endorsement of Nigeria’s candidate, Ibrahim Babani, as the new Executive Secretary of the Commission for a four-year term.

She describes Babani as a seasoned diplomat with strong expertise in water resources management, security and regional cooperation.

Members of the Nigerian delegation to the meeting includes the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Emanso Umobong, among others.

PR/Uju Oparaji, Edited By Grace Namiji