…………Traditional Rulers Highlight Youth Empowerment as a Pillar of Peace in the Lake Chad Basin, Applaud Gov. Buni’s Example
Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his exemplary leadership and commitment to fostering regional stability and cooperation during the 5th Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum, hosted in Maiduguri, Borno State.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Forum, themed “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community,” Governor Buni highlighted President Tinubu’s pivotal role in addressing the shared challenges facing the Lake Chad Basin region.
“Nigeria, under the leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR, has consistently demonstrated its commitment to regional cooperation and stability.
“As the largest stakeholder in the Lake Chad Basin, our leadership reflects a profound sense of responsibility to address the shared challenges that transcend borders,” Governor Buni said.
He praised the President’s dedication to advancing national, regional, and international agendas for peace, development, and security, emphasizing Nigeria’s critical role in supporting the Basin’s affected population, which accounts for 74% of the region’s total.
The Forum, attended by governors from Nigeria, Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, as well as representatives from the United Nations, African Union Commission, and development partners, aims to consolidate efforts to stabilize, recover, and rebuild the Lake Chad Basin.
Governor Buni stressed the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving sustainable development, citing progress in infrastructure rehabilitation, livelihood restoration, and the reintegration of displaced persons.
Governor Buni also commended the President for supporting the Regional Strategy for Stabilization, Recovery, and Resilience (RS-SRR) of Boko Haram-affected areas, which has provided a roadmap for coordinated action across the Basin.
“As we embark on the deliberations of this Forum, I extend my heartfelt appreciation to President Tinubu for his political leadership and continuous commitment to advancing peace and resilience in the Lake Chad Basin region,” Governor Buni stated.
The Forum serves as a vital platform for dialogue among regional stakeholders, with the aim of addressing security threats, climate change, and socio-economic disparities while fostering durable solutions for the affected communities.
………Traditional Rulers Highlight Youth Empowerment as a Pillar of Peace in the Lake Chad Basin, Applaud Gov. Buni’s Example
Also at the meeting of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum, traditional rulers have emphasized the critical role of youth empowerment in governance as a means of mitigating conflict and enhancing societal harmony.
They lauded Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State for his exemplary efforts in engaging youths through appointments and empowerment programs, which have set a benchmark for inclusive governance.
The traditional rulers noted that the Lake Chad Basin, plagued by the devastating effects of insurgency, unemployment, and poverty, requires deliberate policies to channel youthful energy towards productive and developmental activities.
They argued that empowering young people not only addresses their socio-economic challenges but also prevents them from being lured into criminal activities.
Governor Buni’s administration was singled out as a model in this regard. Through strategic initiatives, he has prioritized youth inclusion in governance by appointing capable young individuals into key leadership positions.
This not only gives youths a sense of belonging but also equips them with valuable experience to contribute to state development and the nation.
The Buni-led government has rolled out numerous empowerment programs aimed at providing skills acquisition, startup capital, and entrepreneurial training for young people.
These initiatives have significantly reduced unemployment and created a sense of hope among the youth in Yobe State.
The traditional rulers highlighted that such efforts are essential for peacebuilding, as they address the root causes of unrest in the region.
They urged other leaders in the Lake Chad Basin to emulate Governor Buni’s approach by implementing policies that actively involve young people in decision-making processes and provide opportunities for their growth.
Governor Buni’s commitment to youth development serves as a reminder that sustainable peace can only be achieved when the younger generation is equipped with the tools to contribute positively to society.
His efforts are a testament to the transformative power of inclusive governance in rebuilding communities and fostering long-lasting stability.
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