Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation and peaceful co-existence within the Lake Chad Basin, emphasising the need for joint efforts to tackle shared challenges.
The Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, underscored the importance of collective action in addressing the region’s environmental and security issues.
According to a statement issued by her Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Dr. Magnus Eze, she made the remarks during the 71st Session of the Council of Ministers of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) held in N’Djamena, Chad.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu noted that the commission remained a vital regional platform for promoting environmental sustainability, food security, peace and economic stability among member states.
The Minister described the Lake Chad Basin as ‘not just a shared natural resource but also a lifeline for more than 40 million people across the region.’
Odumegwu-Ojukwu acknowledged that security challenges in the basin remained a serious concern. She commended the continued efforts of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) and the sustained collaboration among member states in combating terrorism and violent extremism.
The Minister also raised concerns about the effects of climate change on the lake, particularly its alarming shrinkage, which she described as ‘one of the most pressing environmental challenges facing the region.’
Odumegwu-Ojukwu called for scientifically driven solutions to restore the lake and protect the livelihoods of millions who depend on it.
She further conveyed the appreciation of President Bola Tinubu, the Nigerian government and its people to member states for endorsing Nigeria’s candidate, Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, as the new Executive Secretary of the LCBC for a four-year term.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu described Babani as ‘a seasoned diplomat with extensive expertise in water resources management, security and regional cooperation.’
Nigeria’s delegation to the meeting also included; the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Utsev, and the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr. Emanso Umobong, among other officials.