Connect with us

News

Tinubu declares open 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum meeting

Published

on

Tinubu declares open 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum meeting

By: Our Reporter

Borno targets durable solution for 5.5 million people – Zulum

The 5th edition of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum meeting has opened in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital.

The Forum themed: “Rebuilding the Lake Chad: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community” have in attendance governors of the 8 states and provinces, traditional rulers, development and humanitarian organisations, civil society organisations amongst others being hosted by Yobe State government.

Declaring the event open, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu called for cooperation and unity among countries in the Lake Chad Basin region.

The president, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, described the true enemy of the region as the non-state actors that exploit weak borders, poor governance and fragile economies to challenge our claim to civilization.

“We must not allow the geopolitical tensions across the world to sow discord among us, nor should we permit ourselves to become tools in any proxy agenda. The salvation of the Lake Chad region is neither in Europe nor in the Americas. It lies in the hands of all those gathered here today”, Tinubu stated.

He called for multifaceted approach to address the root causes of insecurity, poverty, inequality and lack of opportunities for our youth.

“It is a tragic irony that Africa, a continent with the youngest population in the world, sees its youth become cannon fodder for destructive ideologies and the drivers of conflict. This is the challenge before us: to transform this demographic dividend into a force for good”.

Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, says he has committed 15% of the state’s annual budget for the provision of durable solutions to 5.5 million victims of Boko Haram insurgency.

“Our own strategy, spanning the years 2025-2027, is backed by a total budget of USD 2.7 billion, with Borno State committing 15% of its annual budget to the cause. This strategy targets the needs of approximately 5.5 million people, including 2 million IDPs, 500,000 refugees and 3 million other displaced individuals”, Governor Zulum stated.

The governor explained that the durable solutions strategy is anchored on a government-led, people-centered approach, and is designed to align with existing national and regional policies, noting that significant achievements in peacebuilding and social cohesion, particularly through dialogue, youth engagement, and the re-establishment of cross-border trade corridors have been recorded.

“Projects like the Banki Market project and other related infrastructure have been completed and handed over to the communities, fostering a sense of ownership and providing vital economic opportunities”, he said.

Zulum emphasized that his administration has prioritized agricultural transformation as a key pillar of our recovery strategy, with a focus on irrigation systems, resilient crop production and support for smallholder farmers to ensure food security for the people.

Governor Zulum described the Lake Chad Region as the future of Africa with its youthful and rapidly growing population, the region is positioned to become a major driver of economic progress and political leadership.

The potential of this region to shape the future of not only Africa but the world at large cannot be overstated, provided we continue to nurture its growth with the right support and strong political will necessary to address its challenges.

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu under whose leadership the following is ensured, peace and sustainable development that has enabled our on-going reconstruction, Rehabilitation and resettlement efforts, United Nations agencies and development partners.

Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni described the Forum as a beacon of hope, serving as the cornerstone for strengthening and promoting good governance, cross-border cooperation, dialogue and coordinated action among the basin’s eight territories.

He remarked that commitments made during the meetings are instrumental in shaping policies and interventions that address the root causes of instability and lay the foundation for sustainable development.

He observed that the Lake Chad Basin faces multifaceted challenges that include: growing demography, security threats, limited infrastructure, climate change and socio-economic disparities that demand concerted efforts.

The ceremony was attended by members of the national assembly, ministers of agriculture and that of Livestock Development, Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, United Nations agencies, Executive Secretary Lake Chad Basin Commission and International Development Organisations.

Tinubu declares open 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum meeting

Continue Reading
Click to comment

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

News

Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

Published

on

Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have repelled a Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist infiltration into Kanama town, neutralising four insurgents during a swift response operation in Borno State.

Security sources said the incident occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on April 22 when troops of 159 Battalion, deployed in Kanama, responded to sounds of gunfire within the town.

On arrival, the troops reportedly discovered that terrorists had infiltrated parts of the community.

The troops immediately made contact and engaged the attackers with disciplined fire, forcing them to retreat in disarray.

Subsequent exploitation of the general area led to the neutralisation of four terrorists.

One member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained injuries during the encounter and has been evacuated for medical attention.

No military equipment was lost during the operation.

Items recovered from the terrorists include two torchlight mobile phones and the sum of ₦21,000.

Security sources said the general situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, while troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high.

Troops Repel Terrorist Infiltration in Kanama, Neutralise Four Insurgents

Continue Reading

News

Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case

Published

on

Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case

The high-profile terrorism trial in Charge No. FHC/ASB/18C/2024 took a dramatic and gripping turn this week at the Federal High Court, Asaba, as explosive evidence and powerful witness testimonies continue to unfold against Mike Nwaukoni (aka “Supu”) and his alleged accomplices.

Standing trial alongside him are prominent figures including Barrister Francis Okolie, Secretary of the Ogwashi-Uku Development Association (ODA), and Mazi Elue Adigwe, the association’s Secretary-General, among others accused in connection with the violent October 12, 2023 attack on the Palace of the Obi of Ogwashi-Uku.

🔴 Doctor’s Testimony Leaves Court in Silence

In what court observers have described as one of the most chilling moments of the trial so far, Dr. Ezeike Ugochukwu Godwin took the witness stand and delivered a clinical yet deeply emotional account of the injuries sustained by a vigilante operative assigned to protect the Palace.

The doctor confirmed that the victim suffered multiple gunshot wounds, including injuries to the head and upper limbs, describing in precise medical terms the severity of the trauma.

According to his testimony, the victim was brought into the emergency unit in a state of intense pain and critical distress, alongside several others wounded during the attack.

Dr. Ezeike further told the court that the patient was referred from the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ogwashi-Uku, reinforcing the official chain of response following the violent incident.

🔴 Police Investigator Details Chaos and Destruction

A day earlier, on April 21, 2026, the court heard from Inspector Ijeoma Ovat, the initial Investigating Police Officer (IPO), who painted a harrowing picture of the aftermath of the attack.

She testified about the widespread chaos, multiple casualties, and destruction that followed the invasion of the Palace during the controversial Ineh Festival. Crucially, she tendered photographic evidence showing heavily damaged police and vigilante vehicles, corroborating claims of a coordinated and violent assault.
Sources within the prosecution confirm that the damage to the vehicles was extensive and consistent with armed aggression.

🔴 Witnesses Tie Defendants to Armed

AssaultEarlier testimonies in the trial have reportedly identified the defendants as active participants, alleging they were armed with guns and other dangerous weapons during the attack. Witnesses have also pointed to Mike Nwaukoni as a central figure who allegedly instigated and coordinated the operation.

🔴 Passport Request Sparks Legal Firestorm

In a fresh development that has further intensified proceedings, lead prosecutors in the case including CSP Samuel Mallum Esq and A.I Aminu Esq from the Police Legal Directorate in Abuja have strongly opposed an application by Nwaukoni’s legal team seeking the temporary release of his international passport for overseas travel.

According to sources, the prosecution argued that granting such a request poses a serious flight risk, warning that the defendant could attempt to evade justice, seek asylum, or acquire foreign citizenship.

The prosecution also suggested that the move may be a deliberate tactic to delay the trial, particularly as significant portions of the case have already been established.

The matter has been adjourned for further consideration, with hearings expected to resume in late May, continuing into early June 2026.

🔴 Calm Returns to Ogwashi-Uku Amid Trial

Meanwhile, community sources in Ogwashi-Uku report a notable return of peace and stability since the commencement of the trial. Residents have expressed hope that the judicial process will be seen through to a swift and just conclusion, bringing lasting closure to one of the most serious security incidents in the Kingdom’s recent history.

Dramatic Testimony Rocks Nwaukoni Terrorism Trial In Asaba — Doctor Confirms Gunshot Wounds In Palace Attack Case

Continue Reading

News

Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno

Published

on

Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS logistics supplier and intercepted a large quantity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) concealed in a tricycle in Borno State.

Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 9:10 a.m. on April 21 by troops of 159 Battalion at a checkpoint within Sector 2 Area of Responsibility.

The suspect was reportedly conveying PMS concealed in 15 sacks, disguised with bags of sachet water in an attempt to evade detection.

Preliminary investigations indicated that the consignment was being transported to Kanama town and neighbouring communities around Dikwa and Bultuwa, areas believed to be within terrorist influence.

Items recovered from the suspect include a mobile phone and the sum of ₦34,950.

The sources said the suspect and recovered exhibits are in military custody for further investigation and necessary action.

They added that the interception forms part of ongoing operations aimed at disrupting terrorist logistics networks and denying them access to critical supplies across the North-East theatre.

Troops Intercept Suspected Terrorist Logistics Supplier, Seize PMS in Borno

Continue Reading

Trending

Verified by MonsterInsights