By Inusa Ndahi, Maiduguri
Traditional rulers from Lake Chad Basin Development Commission yesterday met in Maiduguri, Borno state capital to foster sustainable peace and development following the over decade atrocities posed by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists organizations.
The traditional rulers are from member state of Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon under Lake Chad Basin Commission with support from government and the North East Development Commission, NEDC.
They include His Royal Highnesss, the Emir of Bade/Yobe State (Nigeria) as Chairman, while, His Majesty the Sultan of N’Djamena (Chad), His Majesty the Sultan of Kousseri(Cameroon), a representative of Niger (to be appointed) as well as HRH Alh. Dr. Muhammad Ibn Abali Muhammad Idris, CON,CFR, the Emir OF Fika and Chairman of Yobe State Council of Traditional Rulers as members.
Speaking at the Regional Meeting of Traditional Rulers of the Lake Chad Basin, held at the Indimi Hall of University of Maiduguri, the Managing Director NEDC, Alhaji Mohammed Alkali described the traditional institution as critical Pillar for sustainable peace, security and development of the Lake Chad Basin region.
Alkali said ” the traditional institution are critical in enhancing collaboration between traditional institutions and public services, managing conflicts between displaced populations and host communities, promoting social cohesion and preventing violent extremism.
“It is my distinct honour to welcome you all to Maiduguri, Nigeria, for this very important workshop on fostering sustainable peace through Traditional Rulers in the Lake Chad Basin.
“The North-East Development Commission (NEDC) recognizes that the Lake Chad Region, while facing significant challenges, holds immense potential for recovery and sustainable development. Our gathering here today acknowledges the vital and irreplaceable role of traditional leaders in shaping the future of this region.” He said.
Also in his remarks, the Executive Secretary,, Lake Chad Basin Commission, Ambassador Mamman Nuhu Said, ” I am particularly pleased that this meeting is taking place under the theme: Fostering Sustainable Peace through Traditional Rulers and Strengthening Capacities for Social Cohesion and the Prevention and Management of Violent Extremism in the Lake Chad Basin.
“This theme resonates deeply with the collective aspiration of the millions of people whose lives and livelihoods depend on a stable and secure region.
“Traditional rulers are not merely symbolic figureheads, you are the heartbeat of your communities – the anchors of identity, the custodians of history, and the arbiters of justice and harmony for generations, your wisdom and authority have guided your people through times of crisis and transformation, ensuring the preservation of culture, resilience, and unity.” Nuhu Said.
Continuing, the Executive Secretary said: “the Lake Chad Basin, rich in history and diversity, owes much of its social cohesion to the leadership of its traditional institutions, yet, this same region has become a theater of devastation due to the Boko Haram insurgency and other forms of violent extremism.
“The displacement of millions, the destruction of livelihoods, and the fragmentation of communities have strained the cultural and social fabric of our societies.
” Therefore, in the face of these challenges, the traditional rulers have remained pillars of strength and stability whether through mediating disputes, fostering intercommunal dialogue, or preserving cultural heritage, your role has been indispensable.
“This meeting is a recognition of that role and a call to action to enhance your capacities in fostering sustainable peace within the region”.
