The African Union (AU) has pledged $800,000 fund to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), to strengthen counter terrorism campaign in the Lake Chad Basin.
The AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Amb. Adeoye Bankole stated this at the inauguration of the 5th Lake Chad Governors’ Forum, on Wednesday in Maiduguri, Borno.
Bankole reaffirmed the AU’s continuous financial and logistical support to the MNJTF, adding that such support played a critical role in combating Boko Haram and other terrorist threats.
“Since 2015, the MNJTF has been instrumental in ensuring security in areas affected by insurgency, mitigating violent attacks, and facilitating stabilisation programme,” Bankole said.
He said the commission had provided sustained assistance to the force since its inception, adding that it would commit an additional $800,000 to further bolster its operations.
The funding, he said, would enhance the MNJTF’s capacity to conduct counter terrorism operations, improve intelligence sharing, and support regional stabilisation efforts.
“The magnitude of the security challenges in the Lake Chad Basin far outweighs the resources currently available to address them. That is why the AU remains committed to strengthening the MNJTF and ensuring that it has the necessary support to effectively combat terrorism,” he said
Bankole recalled that the AU had previously allocated $1 million towards the stabilisation efforts in the region, reinforcing programme aimed at restoring peace, rebuilding communities and facilitating the safe return of displaced persons.
“While the MNJTF has recorded significant achievements, sustained funding and international collaboration are necessary to consolidate gains and prevent the resurgence of terrorist activities.
“We urge member states and international partners to maintain their financial and logistical contributions to the MNJTF, as its success is vital for the stability of the entire region,” he added.
He stressed the need for governments in the Lake Chad Basin to integrate counter terrorism and stabilisation efforts into their national budgets, to ensure long-term security and resilience.
“The fight against terrorism is not just a military operation; it requires coordinated governance, humanitarian response, and socio-economic recovery,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the forum, attended by leaders, international organisations and security experts, focused on strengthening regional cooperation to combat violent extremism, enhance security, and drive sustainable development.
Amb. Mamman Nuhu, the Executive Secretary, Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), called for more cross-border cooperation and sustained investment in stabilisation programmes, to consolidate gains in the fight against insecurity and promote long-term development.
Nuhu underscored the need for a united approach to address the lingering challenges posed by the Boko Haram insurgency and climate induced crises.
“This gathering, under the theme Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community, reflects the profound challenges we face, as well as the shared determination to overcome them,” Nuhu said.
He noted that prolonged violence, displacement and environmental degradation deeply scarred the region, hitherto, a hub of prosperity.
Nuhu, however, he acknowledged the resilience of the affected communities and the collective efforts of governments and partners in driving recovery.
“The Lake Chad Basin, a region once celebrated for its prosperity, has been severely impacted by conflict. Millions have been displaced, families separated, and livelihoods disrupted. Yet, we have also witnessed remarkable resilience and a commitment to rebuilding,” he said.
The LCBC boss commended the role of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum in fostering dialogue, cross-border cooperation, and the successful implementation of the Regional Stabilisation Strategy (RSS), a roadmap designed to address the root causes of instability in the region.
He enumerated key achievements, including livelihood restoration programmes, safe and dignified resettlement of displaced persons and improved security.
He, however, warned that significant challenges remained, particularly with the resurgence of Boko Haram in some areas, adding that, “this forum is not just a platform for discussion it is a catalyst for action.
“Boko Haram’s resurgence has demonstrated that instability in one part of our region affects the entire basin. Our responses must therefore, be coordinated, regional, and inclusive.”
Nuhu stressed the need for cross-border cooperation in tackling shared security threats, managing natural resources, and mitigating climate-related risks.
He, therefore, urged member states to scale up investments in stabilisation programmes and ensure resources were directed where they are needed most.
“The commitment of governments is central, but multi stakeholder engagement including civil society, the private sector, and humanitarian and development partners is equally crucial for long-term stability.”
He further commended international organisations and partners for their continuous support, stressing that the gesture was instrumental in alleviating suffering, restoring hope, and building capacity for sustainable development.
Nuhu advocated strong monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to ensure transparency and accountability in the implementation of stabilisation programmes. (NAN)
