Baga (Borno): The Borno Government has initiated a comprehensive clearance of the Lake Chad Waterways as part of efforts to revive economic activities and enhance security in the region, following years of disruption by insurgency.
Gov. Babagana Umara Zulum flagged off 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 livelihoods 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 stated that the clearing of the waterways was not only aimed at restoring navigability but also at boosting local economies, reviving fishing and agriculture, and promoting peace and stability across the 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 the 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 the 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.
Additionally, the Governor of the Lake Chad Region in the 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 the Lake Chad Region, Youssouf Mbodou-Mbani, also expressed gratitude to the Borno government and security agencies for their support of the initiative, assuring that it would go a long way in boosting sustainable development.
