Lake Chad Crisis Worsens: Governor Fintiri Demands Urgent Action
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Lake Chad Crisis Worsens: Governor Fintiri Demands Urgent Action
Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State has called for renewed commitment and immediate action to stabilize the Lake Chad Basin.
He emphasized the urgent need for cross-border cooperation, security improvements, and sustainable development.
Speaking at the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum Meeting in Maiduguri, Borno State, Fintiri described the worsening environmental, security, and humanitarian crises in the region.
He urged leaders to take decisive steps to prevent further damage.
Lake Chad, once a lifeline for millions, has shrunk dramatically.
Fintiri cited United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) data showing that the lake has lost 90% of its water over the past 60 years.
Climate change, irrigation, dam construction, and rapid population growth have all contributed to this drastic decline.
“The lake’s shrinking has devastated fish stocks, reduced agricultural productivity, and left communities struggling for water,” Fintiri said.
Beyond environmental concerns, he linked the crisis to worsening security.
He warned that as poverty and desperation grow, terrorist groups exploit vulnerable communities.
Research, he noted, has confirmed a connection between the Lake Chad crisis and rising violent extremism.
“The realities we have had to contend with are the severe and multifaceted impacts of this conflict,” he said.
“The insurgency has displaced millions, eroded social cohesion, worsened food insecurity, and destabilized state institutions.”
The governor stressed that economic activities such as farming, fishing, and trade have suffered due to ongoing instability.
Despite these challenges, Fintiri remains hopeful.
He acknowledged the global recognition of the crisis and praised international and local efforts to address the issue.
He reaffirmed his support for the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RSSRR), a framework designed to foster regional cooperation and long-term solutions.
During the forum, leaders deliberated on the theme, “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community.”
Fintiri urged stakeholders to assess progress under the RSSRR and ensure that resources are used effectively.
He called for greater accountability in recovery efforts.
“The world is waiting. Africa is anxious. The Basin is still bleeding. Our people are hopeful,” he concluded.
The Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum serves as a crucial platform for regional leaders to collaborate on addressing the region’s longstanding crises.
The outcomes of the 5th edition are expected to shape future policies and interventions aimed at stabilizing the Basin.
[note]The world is waiting. Africa is anxious. The Basin is still bleeding. Our people are hopeful[/note]
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