Governor Ahamadu Umar Finitri of Adamawa State has called for a renewed commitment to addressing the environmental and security challenges occasioned by climate change being faced in the Lake Chad Basin.
Finitri, speaking at the 5th Edition of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, highlights the impact of environmental degradation on the region.
The meeting, with the theme ‘Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community’.
He emphasised that the shrinking of Lake Chad has reduced activities by over 90% in the past decades as a result of climate change in the basin and has led to declining fish stocks, agricultural productivity, and increased competition for water resources.
Noting that this environmental crisis is fueling conflict and extremism in our communities.
“The insurgent activities in the region have caused mass displacement, undermined human security, and worsened existing vulnerabilities, including poverty, food insecurity, and gender-based violence.
“I commend both state and non-state actors for elevating the Lake Chad crisis to a global agenda,” Fintiri said.
According to the governor, this action by actors is vital for global stability.
The governor advocated for a critical evaluation of the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RSSRR) plan adopted by the region’s leaders.
“Can we say that we have done enough to guarantee the RSSRR we all committed to? Can we match the resources deployed with the progress made in responding to the crisis?” he asked, urging stakeholders to take decisive action in consolidating gains, fostering cross-border cooperation, and ensuring sustainable development.
While expressing optimism that the forum’s deliberations would chart a path to stability and resilience for the region, concluding with a call to action, he said “The world is waiting, Africa is anxious. The Basin is still bleeding. Our people are hopeful.”
The meeting, brought together leaders, development partners, and key stakeholders in a bid to foster regional cooperation and sustainable solutions.
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