Gov. Buni Assumes Chairmanship of Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum
By Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The Governors of the Lake Chad Basin region—comprising Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, and Chad—have unanimously elected Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni (CON, COMN), as the new Chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum.
According to a statement by Mamman Mohammad, Director-General of Press and Media Affairs to the Governor, Buni was elected on Friday at the conclusion of the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum Meeting held in Maiduguri.
The meeting, hosted by the Yobe State Government, was officially declared open by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), who was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima (GCON).
In his acceptance speech, Governor Buni expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his leadership during challenging times and commended his fellow governors and stakeholders for their contributions to the forum’s success.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his commitment to peace, security, and development in the Lake Chad Basin region,” Buni said.
Reflecting on the theme of the meeting, “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community,” the governor emphasized the need to translate discussions into concrete actions.
“As host governor, I hope we will internalize, implement, and act on the resolutions of this meeting, ensuring inclusivity in driving the region’s growth and development,” he stated.
Buni called for stronger partnerships and resource mobilization to achieve shared regional development goals.
“As we celebrate the successful conclusion of this meeting, I am honored that my colleagues have entrusted me with the leadership of this forum for the next two years,” he said.
On behalf of the government and people of Yobe State, Buni thanked his fellow governors for their confidence in him, assuring them of his commitment to the responsibilities ahead.
“I will work closely with all stakeholders, including development partners, to ensure the forum achieves its objectives for the collective progress of our region,” he added.
He also appreciated the outgoing chairperson, Governor Ildjima Abdraman of Hadjer Lamis Province, Chad, for her leadership and contributions.
“I humbly accept this responsibility and look forward to serving with dedication,” Buni concluded.
