The Executive Secretary of Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), Amb. Mamman Nuhu, has said that recurring deficit of fund has been a great concern in the operation of the Commission.
He said this has held back efforts to embark on quick impact projects and more durable development projects as contribution towards eradication of the threat of Boko Haram intrusion as well as other challenges in the Lake Chad sub-region.
Amb Nuhu stated this in his welcome remarks at the opening of the 68th Ordinary Session of the Council of Ministers held on Monday in Abuja.
The Executive Secretary stated that about CFA 16,319,120,147 only was total payment of contributions from member-countries, saying it has been an herculean task to meet the Basin’s financial obligations.
He noted that effect of climate change and variability as well as insecurity were also part of the challenges being faced in the region.
According to him, “the effect of climate change and variability as well as insecurity in the land have had devastating effects on the livelihoods of over 30m people and has impacted the rich biodiversity of the Basin.
“These factors and the depressed socioeconomic condition of life in the region have exacerbated the security challenges confronting us today.
“But for lack of funds we have been confronted with restoring stability and lasting peace in the Lake Chad region as well as finding a sustainable solution to the recurring development deficit in the region.”
He, however, noted that “on our part in the Commission, we will redouble our efforts to provide the requisite platforms for the implementation of the various strategies and programs towards the sustainable development of the resources of the region and the building of resilience among the people.”
Amb. Mamman buttressed that with all necessary actions in place to enhance economic growth, the commission will endeavour to move the region to greater height.
While declaring open the session, Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources, Engr. Suleiman Adamu, who is also the chairman of the Commission, expressed gratitude to all member-countries present and charged them to be actively involved in both financial and resources in order to efficiently sustain the region.
He pointed out that not only provision for guidance in addressing transboundary security challenges should be target of all region leaders, but “also improving the quality of life for our people. As such, must commit appropriate resources and make a concerted effort to work together cooperatively toward the fulfilment of LCBC’s mandate and mission.”
Adamu said he was optimistic that effective realization of the first Phase of the InterBasin Water Transfer Project related to “Improving the hydraulic city of the Chari-Logone systems, and development of the Lake Chad” will go a long way in resolving such pressing climate induced disasters in the LCBC.
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