Traditional rulers from the Lake Chad Basin region gathered in Maiduguri on Monday ahead of the 5th meeting of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum (LCBGF).
Addressing the gathering, Amb. Mamman Nuhu, Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission, noted that the meeting’s objective was to provide a platform for traditional rulers to share experiences and engage in dialogue on preventing and managing violent extremism within the region.
Recognising the crucial role of traditional rulers in fostering peace, unity, and prosperity, Amb. Nuhu urged them to assume leadership with renewed vigour and determination.
He outlined three key objectives: enhancing social cohesion, strengthening capacities, and fostering partnerships between traditional rulers, governments, and civil society organisations.
“The LCBC has undertaken various initiatives to empower traditional institutions, including capacity-building programmes, community-based initiatives, and policy advocacy,” he stated.
Amb. Nuhu called upon the traditional rulers to collaborate to transform the Lake Chad Basin from a region plagued by crisis into a beacon of hope and resilience.
“Peace is not merely the absence of conflict but the presence of justice, equity, and opportunity,” he explained. “Traditional rulers possess the power to inspire and guide their communities towards this vision of peace.”
The meeting is expected to pave the way for a successful 5th LCBGF meeting, where governors and other high-ranking officials from the region will convene to discuss matters of regional significance.
Discussions will also focus on enhancing cooperation and collaboration among states and countries within the Lake Chad Basin region.
The forum aims to promote economic integration, strengthen security cooperation, and address the environmental and socio-economic challenges confronting the Lake Chad Basin region.
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