Organizers of the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum announced on Monday that economic and environmental challenges, alongside recovery and sustainable development, would take center stage during the high-level week-long event.
Baba Malam-Wali, Secretary to the Yobe State Government and Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the forum, disclosed this during a press conference in Maiduguri. He reaffirmed the Yobe State Government’s commitment to ensuring a successful and impactful event.
Malam-Wali emphasized the forum’s focus on addressing the region’s multifaceted challenges, particularly stabilization, recovery, and resilience in the Lake Chad Basin.
“The LOC, in collaboration with the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and other partners, has worked diligently to coordinate all aspects of the forum,” Malam-Wali said.
He noted that adequate preparations had been made in areas such as logistics, security, health services, communication, and cultural events.
“All venues, including conference halls and accommodation facilities, have been prepared to meet international standards, ensuring the comfort and convenience of participants. Robust security measures, including 24-hour surveillance and access control, are in place to guarantee the safety of all attendees,” he added.
Malam-Wali also stated that a fully equipped health clinic and emergency ambulance services would be available throughout the event, with the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital designated as a referral center for advanced care.
The forum is expected to attract over 1,000 participants, including governors, policymakers, traditional leaders, development partners, civil society organizations, and media representatives from Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria.
Themed “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development,” the forum will cover foundational discussions on security, climate challenges, and updates on the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RSSRR).
“Day two will feature sectoral and diplomatic discussions on food security, humanitarian aid, transitional justice, and pathways for durable solutions for displaced populations. Day three will focus on closed-door deliberations among governors, culminating in the presentation of outcomes and the official handover of the forum’s chairmanship,” Malam-Wali explained.
The event will conclude with a gala dinner and cultural night to celebrate the region’s diversity and achievements, with remarks from dignitaries and a formal conclusion of the forum’s proceedings.
Speaking on behalf of the LCBC, Hycinth Banseka, the commission’s Technical Director, highlighted the forum’s importance in fostering collaboration and addressing regional challenges.
“This forum provides a unique platform for governors and stakeholders to share experiences, foster cross-border cooperation, and tackle critical issues such as security, climate change, and sustainable development,” Banseka said.
He noted a significant development this year: the inclusion of pre-forum consultations with civil society, traditional leaders, youths, and women’s groups, ensuring diverse voices are represented while maintaining the governors’ central role.
Banseka commended the forum for its progress in promoting cross-border security and development over the past year.
Malam-Wali praised the Federal Government, development partners, and regional leaders for their unwavering support and urged all stakeholders to renew their dedication to the Nigerian Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience.
“The forum must lead to impactful and sustainable outcomes for the region’s people,” he said.
The Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum is organized in partnership with the LCBC, UNDP, the African Union, and other technical partners.
