The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has highlighted the critical role of recharging Lake Chad in enhancing Nigeria’s counterterrorism operations, particularly in the North East region.
During a strategic reassessment visit to the Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai at the 7 Division, Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri, Borno State, General Musa emphasized that restoring the lake would significantly strengthen naval capabilities and aid in rooting out terrorist elements operating in the area.
“We are looking forward to holding another meeting focused on clearing all obstacles in Lake Chad and recharging it. This is very important to our ongoing efforts against insecurity,” the CDS stated.
He further underscored the dual security and economic relevance of Lake Chad, pointing out that the lake supports over 50 million people across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. According to him, recharging the lake would not only enhance regional stability but also create up to 20 million jobs for young people.
General Musa’s remarks come in the wake of renewed attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents targeting military installations and communities in Borno and Yobe states. He described these incidents as a “temporary setback” resulting from increased military pressure on terrorist groups in the Sahel, which has forced them to shift operations toward the Lake Chad Basin’s vulnerable borders.
“What we are witnessing is an eclipse — a reaction to pressure on terrorist groups in the Sahel,” he explained. “We are working diligently to address these challenges.”
Reassuring Nigerians, General Musa said the Armed Forces, in partnership with other security agencies, are adopting new strategies and deploying advanced weaponry to strengthen the counterinsurgency campaign.
“I was in Borno three weeks ago with the ministers of defence and other service chiefs to assess the security situation. I returned now to reassess and consult with stakeholders. These recent attacks should not cause alarm; we are fully in control,” he affirmed.
The CDS also called on citizens to actively support the military’s efforts, emphasizing that ensuring national security is a collective responsibility.
“Security is a shared responsibility. Every Nigerian has a role to play in ensuring peace,” he concluded.
