VP Shettima Emphasizes Multi-Dimensional Strategies While Governor Zulum Observes
Addressing Root Causes of Insecurity Alongside Military Efforts
At the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum held in Maiduguri, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu underscored the need for a multifaceted strategy to combat terrorism, insurgency, and security threats in the region. Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima, the President stressed that military interventions alone are insufficient; sustainable solutions must also address poverty, inequality, and lack of economic opportunities.
The forum, hosted by the Yobe State government, brought together governors from Nigeria, Cameroon, Chad, and Niger, alongside humanitarian agencies and international partners. The discussions focused on regional stability and actionable solutions to counter security challenges in the Lake Chad Basin.
Balancing Military Power with Socioeconomic Development
In his address, VP Shettima emphasized the need for a dual approach to security, blending military might with developmental policies to curb the root causes of instability.
“Our strategy must go beyond military intervention. Addressing poverty, inequality, and unemployment among our youth is essential in countering radical ideologies,” he stated.
Shettima also pointed out that Africa, despite having the youngest population in the world, often sees its youth exploited by violent groups due to economic hardships. He reiterated that while military force is necessary to secure borders, long-term stability depends on diplomatic engagement, cultural cohesion, and shared values among member states.
Global Security and Regional Stability
Highlighting the global nature of security challenges, Tinubu noted that worldwide military spending reached an unprecedented $2.4 trillion in 2023. However, he cautioned that relying solely on military force without justice and diplomacy risks deepening divides rather than bridging them.
He urged the Lake Chad Basin Governors to stay committed to regional partnerships, particularly initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He stressed that decisions made today will shape the region’s future for generations to come.
The Role of Cooperation in Regional Security
President Tinubu acknowledged past military successes in reclaiming territories from insurgents, attributing them to joint missions undertaken by member countries. He warned, however, against allowing geopolitical tensions to sow discord within the region, emphasizing that unity among the forum members is paramount.
“The salvation of the Lake Chad region does not lie in Europe or America; it is in our collective hands. We must not allow external influences to disrupt our commitment to securing the region,” he cautioned.
He identified non-state actors as the primary threats to regional security, citing weak borders, poor governance, and economic fragility as vulnerabilities that insurgents exploit. More critically, he warned that the greatest risk lies in a lack of cooperation and commitment among regional leaders.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State described the forum as an opportunity for stakeholders to assess the impact of the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience, which has been in place for six years. He emphasized the need for continued collaboration to ensure long-term stabilization and economic resilience in the Lake Chad Basin.
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State commended the forum’s strategic partners for their contributions to rebuilding the region. He noted that the platform fosters regional integration and political cohesion, essential for sustained development.
Environmental Challenges and Climate Change
Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintri, highlighted the environmental degradation affecting the Basin, noting that Lake Chad has shrunk by 90% in just six years. He cited climate change, irrigation practices, dam construction, and population growth as major contributors to the crisis, referencing findings from the United Nations Environmental Programme (UNEP).
International Support and Future Prospects
Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, Amb. Mamman Nuhu, reaffirmed the forum’s commitment to cross-border cooperation, security, and sustainable development. The theme of this year’s meeting, “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, and Regional Development”, reflects both the achievements made and the challenges ahead.
British High Commission Development Director, Ms. Cynthia Rowe, commended the region’s governors for their efforts in addressing the crisis. She acknowledged that while displaced communities are gradually returning home, challenges such as poverty, economic instability, and climate change persist. Rowe assured the forum of continued support from international funding partners.
Key Attendees and Stakeholder Contributions
Among those present were key political and military figures, including:
- Governor of Hadji Lamis Province, Chad, Ildjima Abdraman
- Senator representing Borno South, Mohammed Ali Ndume
- Senator representing Borno Central, Kaka Shehu Lawan
- Former Senate President, Senator Ahmad Lawan
- Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa
- Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari
- Minister of Livestock Development, Idi Maiha
- Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh
- Minister of State for Industry, Trade, and Investment, Senator John Enoh
- Shehu of Borno, HRH Alh. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garba Al Amin El-Kanemi
- Former Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Amb. Babagana Kingibe
The forum concluded with a renewed commitment to strengthening regional security, boosting economic cooperation, and ensuring sustainable development in the Lake Chad Basin.
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