All Stakeholders Must Resolve to Address Cross-Border Challenges – LCBC Scribe

By Ladi Jossy, Maiduguri

Ambassador Maman Nuhu, the Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), urged the traditional rulers and customary authorities of Lake Chad Basin to play critical roles in addressing the cross-border challenges confronting the region.

Nuhu disclosed while officially closing the inaugural two-day meeting of Traditional Rulers and Customary Authorities of the Lake Chad Basin, held in Maiduguri between January 27 to 28, 2025 ahead of 5th edition of Lake Chad Basin Governors Forum slated for tomorrow.


He underscored the significance of  inaugural meeting which he believed has achieved its objectives, serving as a crucial platform to discuss peacebuilding, social cohesion, and conflict resolution.


He also acknowledged the wisdom and leadership of the traditional rulers in providing insights on promoting social harmony and preventing violent extremism.


The event witnessed an impressive turnout of traditional rulers and stakeholders from Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger Republic. Amb. Nuhu extended heartfelt gratitude to the participants, highlighting their valuable contributions to developing joint initiatives for sustainable peace and coexistence.


He said, “As we reach the conclusion of the two days of fruitful exchanges,it

is evident that this inaugural meeting of the Traditional Rulers and

Customary Authorities of the Lake Chad Basin has been a resounding

success. The meeting was aimed at promoting dialogue, fostering

collaboration, and addressing the pressing cross-border challenges of our region,”

He commended the Governors of Yobe and Borno States, Mala Buni and Prof. Babagana  Zulum, for their sponsorship and unwavering support, which significantly bolstered the meeting’s success.

On his part, Muhammadu Abali Ibn Muhammadu, the Emir of Fika who is also the Chairman of Traditional rulers in Yobe state Idrissa said they committed to strengthening their role as custodians of the culture and tradition, peace, preventing and managing community conflicts and promoting dialogue and reconciliation between the parties.

He opined,”We will develop local frameworks for dialogue to promote peaceful coexistence,including youth, women, and marginalized groups. We will work to rehabilitate the traditional values of solidarity, tolerance,and mutual respect.

Emir of Fika added,”We will promote resilient agricultural practices and the rational use of water resources within our communities. We recognise climate change as a risk multiplier in the Lake Chad region and call for the climate-peace-security nexus approach.”

In 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.