Borno Government has commenced comprehensive clearance of Lake Chad Waterways as part of efforts to revive economic activities and enhance security in the region after years
By: Hamza Suleiman
Borno Government has commenced comprehensive clearance of Lake Chad Waterways as part of efforts to revive economic activities and enhance security in the region after years of disruption by insurgency.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Gov. Babagana Umara Zulum flagged of the exercise on Tuesday at Baga Fish Dam in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno.
Zulum, who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr Umar Kadafur, led a high-powered delegation on behalf of the state government.
Speaking at the event, Zulum said the initiative symbolised a new beginning for millions of people whose lives and livelihood were connected to the Lake Chad Basin.
“For centuries, Lake Chad has been the lifeblood of Borno and the wider sub-region, supporting fishing, agriculture, transportation, and trade.
“In recent years, however, insurgency, environmental degradation, silting and falling water levels have severely affected the lake’s economic and ecological importance,” he revealed.
Zulum said the clearing of the waterways was not only aimed at restoring navigability but also boosting local economies, reviving fishing and agriculture, and promoting peace and stability across affected communities.
“This is not merely about dredging the lake, but about dredging hope, opportunities, and a sustainable path to economic recovery for our people,” he said.
He commended the Nigerian Navy for leading the operation, describing it as a demonstration of inter-agency collaboration and national commitment to development in conflict-affected areas.
“We thank the Chief of Naval Staff and all personnel of the Nigerian Navy for their dedication and foresight. We also appreciate the support of Government of Lake Chad Province, traditional leaders, and partner agencies,” he said.
Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Maj.-Gen. Godwin Mutkut, also lauded the efforts of Borno Government and regional partners in revitalising the Lake Chad Basin.
“I won’t say much, but I thank Gov. Zulum and the Lake Chad regional authorities for their support and leadership in the fight against insurgency,” Mutkut said.
Also speaking, the Governor of the Lake Chad Region in Chad Republic, Gen. Sale Haggar Tidjani, described the exercise as a turning point for the people of Lake Chad.
“This milestone marks the start of a new era of prosperity. The dredging will allow heavy-duty boats to navigate through the canal, linking Baga to other major towns and facilitating regional trade,” Haggar said.
He added that the project would create jobs, enhance economic resilience, and support peace-building efforts in the region.
The Emir of Lake Chad Region, Youssouf Mbodou-Mbani, also expressed gratitude to Borno government and security agencies for supporting the initiative, assuring that it would go a long way in boosting sustainable development. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)