By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu
The African Union (AU) has pledged $800,000 support funding to the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), to strengthen counter terrorism campaign in the Lake Chad Basin.
The African Union’s 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.
He 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.
Commissioner emphasized that since 2015, the MNJTF has been instrumental in ensuring security in areas affected by insurgency, mitigating violent attacks, and facilitating stabilisation programme.
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.
He added that, the funding, would enhance the MNJTF’s capacity to conduct counter terrorism operations, improve intelligence sharing, and support regional stabilisation efforts.
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 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.
However, he 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 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.
Never miss a moment! Get the stories shaping Nigeria, delivered straight to your phone. Follow Peoplesdaily Newspaper on WhatsApp for breaking news, exclusive reports, and the headlines everyone will be talking about, before anyone else.
