From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
Governors from the Lake Chad Basin countries—Nigeria, Niger, Cameroon, and Chad—have unanimously elected Yobe State Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni as Chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum.
Governor Buni was elected on Friday at the conclusion of the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum Meeting held in Maiduguri. The event, hosted by the Yobe State Government, was 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. He also appreciated his fellow governors, delegates, and stakeholders for their participation and contributions to the success of the meeting.
“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his leadership and commitment to peace, security, and development in the Lake Chad Basin region,” Buni said.
Reflecting on the meeting’s theme, “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community,” he emphasized the need to transition from discussions to concrete actions that promote growth and development.
“As the host governor, I hope we will internalize, domesticate, and act on the lessons and resolutions of this meeting. We must move beyond discussions to an all-inclusive, action-packed implementation process that ensures no one is left behind,” he stated.
Governor Buni further stressed the importance of robust partnerships, support, and adequate resource allocation to achieve the shared goal of a prosperous region.
“It is gratifying that as we celebrate the successful conclusion of this meeting, my colleagues have found me worthy of chairing the forum for the next two years,” he said.
On behalf of himself, the Yobe State Government, and the people of Yobe, he expressed appreciation for the confidence his fellow governors had placed in him.
“Let me take this opportunity to reassure you, my dear colleagues, that I will serve with a strong sense of responsibility and unwavering commitment to this office. I will work closely with you and our development partners to ensure the forum’s success and the overall development of our region,” Buni pledged.
He also extended his appreciation to the outgoing chairperson, Governor Ildjima Abdraman of Hadjer Lamis Province, Chad, for her leadership.
“On this note, I humbly accept the decision of my colleagues and the opportunity given to me and the Yobe State Government to serve as Chairman of the Forum,” he concluded.