Traditional rulers from Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger have vowed to address the persistent insecurity plaguing the Lake Chad Basin. Meeting in Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday, the leaders expressed deep concern over the devastation caused by insurgency, including widespread displacement and loss of lives.
Mamman Nuhu, Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission and Head of Mission for the Multinational Joint Task Force, underscored the crucial role of traditional rulers in fostering peace and stability. “They are the heartbeat of communities, custodians of history, and the closest to the people,” he said.
The discussions also focused on underlying issues such as poor education, unemployment, and inadequate infrastructure, which Nuhu identified as drivers of insecurity in the region.
“This two-day meeting will allow us to dissect issues, empower traditional rulers, and address the pressing challenges in communities across the Lake Chad Basin,” Nuhu added.
The summit is expected to produce actionable strategies to restore peace and improve living conditions in the affected areas.