President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for a comprehensive strategy to tackle terrorism, insurgency, and security threats in the Lake Chad Basin region, emphasizing that military action alone is insufficient.
Speaking at the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Wednesday, Tinubu—represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima—stressed the need to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunities for the region’s youth.
“Our response must be multifaceted. While military solutions are necessary, they must be complemented by social and economic strategies,” he stated. “It is a tragic irony that Africa, the world’s youngest continent, sees its youth becoming tools for destructive ideologies rather than drivers of progress.”
The forum, hosted by Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, brought together governors from Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger, along with humanitarian organizations and global development partners. Discussions focused on strengthening regional cooperation, enhancing cross-border security, and advancing socioeconomic recovery in the region.
Tinubu highlighted past joint military successes against terrorist elements but cautioned against political and geopolitical divisions that could undermine progress. He urged the governors to remain committed to regional stability and avoid becoming tools for external proxy conflicts.
“The salvation of the Lake Chad region is not in Europe or the Americas—it lies in our hands. We must stand united in cooperation, sincerity, and a shared commitment to peace,” he declared.
The President also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as essential pathways to long-term peace and prosperity in the region.
The forum also addressed climate change challenges, with Adamawa State Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri noting that Lake Chad has shrunk by 90% in six years, exacerbating economic hardships and displacement.
The event saw participation from key government officials, military leaders, and representatives from international development agencies, all pledging continued support for stabilization, recovery, and resilience-building efforts in the Lake Chad Basin.
