By Abdul Kareem

The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has taken steps to deepen its collaboration with the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) to address the environmental crises facing the region.

This partnership is central to the implementation of the North East Stabilization and Development Master Plan (NESDMP), which prioritizes a ‘Protected Environment’ among its eleven key pillars.

During a recent visit to the LCBC headquarters in N’Djamena, NEDC Managing Director and CEO, Mohammed Goni Alkali, met with LCBC Executive Secretary Ambassador Mamman Nuhu. 

Alkali emphasized the shared goals between the two organizations in tackling the pressing issues of climate change, environmental degradation, and food security that plague the region. 

“Our strategies for recovering the Lake Chad Basin closely align with the objectives of the NESDMP,” Alkali stated, highlighting the importance of collaborative efforts in revitalizing both the lake and the surrounding areas.

The North East region faces dire environmental challenges, including desertification, pollution, and the alarming recession of Lake Chad. These issues have exacerbated conflicts between herdsmen and farmers, undermining food security and livelihoods. 

“By working together, we can create a comprehensive approach to address these challenges,” Alkali added.

Ambassador Nuhu, the CEO of LCBC, reiterated the importance of this partnership. “We certainly have a lot to do together,” he said. “At our technical level, we will develop recommendations to strengthen our collaboration and enhance our stabilization initiatives.” 

NEDC and LCBC official in a family photo session at the LCBC Headquarters in Ndjamena

He noted that both organizations share a commitment to the regional stabilization strategy established in 2018, which includes nine pillars and numerous strategic objectives.

In an interview with The Humanitarian Times, the MD said the NEDC is actively seeking support from global development partners to ensure the successful implementation of the NESDMP, which is designed to meet the specific needs of the six states in the North East. 

“This plan is not just about recovery; it’s about building resilience against future environmental threats,” Alkali explained.

As part of their visit, the NEDC delegation is participating in the 3rd Annual International Forum on the Development of the Lake Chad Basin. The forum, themed “Enhancing Local Governance and Social Cohesion for Socio-Economic Development and Food Security in Changing Conditions,” aims to foster dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders committed to the region’s recovery.