By Abdulkareem Haruna

Ndjamena, CHAD– January 22, 2025 – Yobe State is set to welcome dignitaries from across the Lake Chad Basin region for the 5th edition of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum (LCBGF), themed “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community.” The event will take place from January 29-31, 2025, at the Indimi International Conference Centre in Maiduguri.

Organized by the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) in partnership with the African Union Commission (AUC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the forum aims to unite stakeholders from Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger to address the complex challenges posed by the ongoing Boko Haram crisis. With nearly 500 participants expected, the event is anticipated to be a pivotal gathering for discussions on humanitarian, development, and peace initiatives.

“The Forum provides a critical space for humanitarian, development, and peace actors to come together to shape concrete and actionable plans for stabilizing the region,” said His Excellency Ambassador Mamman Nuhu, Executive Secretary of the LCBC.

The forum comes at a time when the region grapples with conflict dynamics, widespread displacement, and weakened institutional capacities.

“The Lake Chad Basin Governors Forum remains an essential platform for promoting sustainable development, peace, and security in the region,” noted Ambassador Adeoye Bankole, Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security at the African Union Commission. He emphasized the AU’s commitment to supporting stabilization initiatives and encouraged international partners to extend their support.

As part of the forum’s agenda, stakeholders will reflect on progress made and discuss pathways for enhanced regional cooperation and long-term peace. “As the host Governor, I am deeply honored to reaffirm Yobe State’s commitment to this significant regional event,” said His Excellency Hon. Mai Mala Buni, Executive Governor of Yobe State. “This is a vital opportunity for us to advance cooperation for sustainable development across the Lake Chad Basin region.”

A Pre-Forum will take place from January 27-28, aimed at fostering inclusivity through discussions with local and national actors, civil society, and traditional leaders. This segment will focus on critical topics such as social cohesion and the prevention of violent extremism.

Mr. Njoya Tikum, Director of the UNDP Sub-Regional Hub for West and Central Africa, highlighted the impact of the Regional Stabilisation Facility (RSF), stating, “Together, we’ve co-created solutions that have enabled nearly half a million internally displaced persons to return to their communities and live in dignity.”

As the Lake Chad Basin region faces numerous challenges, the upcoming forum promises to be a significant step towards rebuilding and securing a brighter future for its communities.

For more information and media inquiries, please contact:

  • Fajong Joseph Lereh, Communication Specialist, RS SRR, Lake Chad Basin Commission: j.fajong@cblt.org
  • Ugochukwu Kingsley Ahuchaogu, Regional Communications Analyst, UNDP: ugochukwu.kingsley@undp.org

About the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC): Established in 1964, the LCBC focuses on managing Lake Chad and its shared resources while promoting regional peace and development. Learn more at www.cblt.org.

About the African Union Commission (AUC): Based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the AUC serves as the secretariat for the African Union, undertaking critical day-to-day activities. More information can be found at www.au.int/en/commission.

About the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP): UNDP works worldwide to end poverty and inequality while addressing climate change. More details are available at www.undp.org/africa.