The Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum, hosted by Yobe State, has concluded preparations for the high-profile event set to take place from January 29 – 31, 2025, in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Alhaji Baba Malam Wali, Chairman of the LOC and Secretary to the Yobe State Government, made the announcement during a press briefing on Monday at the Muhammadu Indimi Learning Centre, University of Maiduguri.
Flanked by LOC members, Wali emphasised Yobe State’s commitment, under the leadership of Governor Mai Mala Buni, to fostering regional cooperation and sustainable development.
“Hosting this forum underscores Yobe State’s dedication to addressing the challenges facing the Lake Chad Basin region,” Wali said.
The LOC, in partnership with the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has ensured all aspects of the event are in place.
Wali highlighted that robust security arrangements, comprehensive health services, and a fully equipped media centre have been established to support delegates and participants.
The forum will revolve around the theme: “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating gains, commitment to peace, cross-border cooperation, security, and sustainable development for a resilient community.”
Discussions will focus on critical issues including regional security, humanitarian assistance, and economic recovery.
“Nigeria continues to play a central leadership role in promoting stabilisation, peace-building, and sustainable development in the Lake Chad Basin region,” Wali added, urging stakeholders, governments, development partners, civil society, and traditional leaders to renew their commitment to the regional strategy for stabilisation, recovery, and resilience.
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He further expressed gratitude to the federal government, President Bola Tinubu, and other key stakeholders for their support in organising the forum.
Gov. Buni extended special thanks to Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, the LCBC leadership, the African Union, UNDP, development partners, and the media for their contributions.
“This forum provides an opportunity to forge actionable partnerships and mobilise resources to transform the Lake Chad Basin into a region of peace, stability, and opportunity,” Wali said.
The 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum will convene leaders, policymakers, and development experts from across the region to advance collective solutions to the pressing challenges of the Lake Chad Basin, fostering long-term peace and resilience in the region.