The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called for stronger political will to implement cross-border security agreements and ensure the free movement of people and goods within the Lake Chad Basin.
In a statement celebrating the successful hosting of the Fifth Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum in Maiduguri, CISLAC emphasized that regional cooperation and unity are key to addressing the pressing challenges faced by communities in the region.
Auwal Ibrahim Musa (Rafsanjani), Executive Director of CISLAC, highlighted that; “A divided region weakens the collective ability to confront common challenges such as terrorism, climate change, and economic hardship.”
He stressed the importance of prioritizing diplomacy, dialogue, and cooperation over conflict.
The statement also noted the critical role of stronger governance, sustainable funding mechanisms, and reinforced international support for achieving the Forum’s goals.
CISLAC pointed to the importance of regional coordination in combating insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and ISWAP, which continue to threaten millions of lives across Nigeria, Chad, Cameroon, and Niger.
“To combat insurgency effectively, sustainable peace will require stronger regional coordination, intelligence-sharing, and investment in community-led stabilization programs,” CISLAC added.
The organization underscored that cross-border security agreements are essential to fostering stability in the region and ensuring the safe movement of people and goods across borders.
CISLAC further called for the removal of trade barriers, advocating for regional free trade and economic integration as measures to create sustainable jobs and reduce youth vulnerability to radicalization.
“The removal of trade barriers is necessary to boost regional free trade, enhance economic integration, and create sustainable jobs,” the statement noted.
CISLAC urged all stakeholders, including national governments, regional organizations, civil society, and international partners, to demonstrate greater commitment and accountability in supporting the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum.
