By Ndahi Marama, Damaturu

Following preparation for the 5th Edition of Lake Chad Basin Governor’s Forum (LCBGF) slated to take place in Maiduguri, Borno State, the Chief Host and Governor of Yobe state, Hon. Mai Mala Buni has assured that adequate security arrangement has been made to ensure safety of lives and property of all delegates.

The forum which is set up to address the persistent regional challenges will be held at Mohammed Indimi International Conference Centre, University of Maiduguri from January 29 to 31, 2025. Maiduguri was chosen as venue for convenience of all delegates and participants.

This was disclosed by the Secretary to the Yobe State Government, Baba Mallam Wali who also doubles as the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) while briefing newsmen at the International Learning Centre, University of Maiduguri on Monday.

The forum according to Wali is not just a meeting; it is a platform to forge actionable partnerships, align strategies, and mobilize the resources needed to transform the Lake Chad Basin into a region of peace, stability, and
opportunity.

Wali said, “the forum will bring together governors, policymakers, development
partners, and stakeholders to address pressing challenges and explore opportunities for recovery and resilience in the region.

“It also represents a significant milestone in our collective efforts to address the multifaceted challenges facing the Lake Chad Basin region, adding that, “Yobe State Government under the leadership of Governor Buni is proudly enough to host the event, and to reinforce our shared commitment to stabilization, recovery, and resilience in the region hitherto ravaged by activities of terrorists.

“Yobe State’s commitment to hosting the forum has demonstrated resolute commitment to the principles of regional cooperation and sustainable development, which is also a testament to the state’s collaborative efforts and partnerships to promoting peace, security, and prosperity across the Lake Chad Basin region.

“The LOC, in collaboration with the LCBC and UNDP, has been working diligently to
coordinate all aspects of the forum. I am pleased to report that significant progress has been made across key areas such as logistics and venues/accommodations which are to be under security coverage 24hrs for the days event, with dedicated patrol teams and access control protocols.

“On Health Services, Comprehensive health services will be available 24hrs to all delegates and forum participants, with University of Maiduguri Clinic and Teaching Hospital to serve as referral Centre for any reported cases., while media center has been established at the venue to support seamless operations of accredited journalists, even as regular media briefings and press releases will be conducted throughout the exercise.

“The forum day-1 will begin with an in-depth analysis of current security and humanitarian trends in the Lake Chad Basin, led by the Force Commander of the MNJTF and the UN System. This session will focus on the evolving challenges and their implications for
peace and development in the region.

“It will be followed by a review of the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RS-SRR), where stakeholders will explore updated strategies, implementation tools, and funding mechanisms, enriched
by insights from traditional rulers and expert discussions.

“Key initiatives, including the Stabilization and Development Fund, will also be launched, underlining the importance of resource mobilization for sustainable peacebuilding. Additionally, discussions will address the implementation of Territorial Action Plans (TAPs), emphasizing partnerships and strategies to overcome challenges and accelerate
progress in stabilizing and developing the Boko Haram-affected areas.

“Day-2 of the forum will address critical issues such as food security and climate resilience, focusing on strategies to build sustainable food systems in the face of regional challenges. It will also explore managing exits from armed groups, fostering transitional justice, and promoting reintegration to enhance social cohesion. Discussions will further
highlight pathways for durable solutions for displaced populations, ensuring stability for Internally Displaced Persons, IDPs and refugees.

“In addition, experts will examine opportunities to leverage cross-border trade for socio-economic recovery and regional cooperation. The event will culminate in a gala dinner hosted by the Yobe State Government, while Day -3 which is the final day will emphasize the critical role of civil society partnerships in implementing the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RS-SRR), fostering impactful collaboration. Discussions will also tackle strategies to combat illicit drug trafficking and abuse, linking these efforts to preventing violent extremism in the
region.

“The event will conclude with final deliberations by the governors in closed-door sessions, culminating in the presentation of the Governors’ Forum Communiqué. The closing
ceremony will feature the official handover of the Chair, remarks by key dignitaries, and the formal conclusion of this significant gathering.

“As we approach the forum, I urge all regional stakeholders; governments, development partners, civil society organizations, traditional leaders, media organizations and the private sector communities to renew their commitment to the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RS-SRR).

“On behalf of the Yobe State Government and His Excellency, Governor Mai Mala Buni CON, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Federal Government and His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, His Excellency Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, His Excellency Rt. Hon Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri Governor of Adamawa State, the LCBC
leadership, the African Union, UNDP and all our development partners and media
organizations for their support”. The LOC Chairman stated.