Tinubu Urges Stronger Regional and Global Action to Tackle Lake Chad Basin Crisis

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President Bola Tinubu has called on regional leaders and international partners to step up efforts in addressing the pressing security, social, and economic challenges facing the Lake Chad Basin.

Speaking at the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri on Monday, Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, underscored the urgent need for sustained collaboration, good governance, and strategic investments to restore stability and prosperity to the region.

“The Lake Chad Basin is at a crossroads. The stability of this region is paramount not only to the countries that share its borders but to Africa and the world at large,” he declared.

The Lake Chad Basin, which spans Nigeria, Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, has been plagued by insurgency, climate change, and economic hardship, threatening millions of livelihoods. Tinubu urged stakeholders to prioritize rebuilding programs that restore economic opportunities and promote inclusive governance.

He also emphasized the need for a people-centred approach, focusing on empowering youth and women as key drivers of sustainable development.

“We cannot afford to be complacent. The security of our region, the welfare of our people, and the health of our environment depend on our collective action,” Tinubu said.

The president called for greater international involvement, urging multilateral organizations, private sector investors, and civil society groups to play a more active role in stabilizing the region.

“Together, we can build a future of peace, security, and prosperity. Let this forum be a defining moment in our shared journey towards a better tomorrow,” he added.

The forum comes at a critical time as the Lake Chad Basin continues to struggle with the impacts of terrorism, environmental degradation, and mass displacement. With millions of people depending on the lake for their survival, urgent action is needed to reverse its decline and ensure long-term security and economic resilience.