Borno Govt Flags Off Dredging Of Lake Chad Waterways At Baga Fish Dam

By; SÀDIQ ABUBAKAR, Maiduguri

In a landmark move aimed at reviving the socio-economic fortunes of the Lake Chad Region, Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, has flagged off the dredging of the Lake Chad waterways at the Baga Fish Dam in Baga Town.

The exercise, launched yesterday, is a collaborative effort between the Borno State Government and the Nigerian Navy, with backing from the Government of the Lake Chad Province and other regional partners. It is designed to restore the region’s historic economic relevance after years of insecurity and environmental decline.

Speaking at the ceremony on behalf of the Governor, Deputy Governor H.E. Umar Usman Kadafur described the initiative as a major milestone in efforts to rejuvenate the region’s economy and enhance security after over a decade of insurgency.

He underscored Lake Chad’s historical importance in sustaining millions of people through fishing, agriculture, trade, and transportation. He noted that natural challenges such as silting and declining water levels have severely hindered economic activities and exacerbated poverty and vulnerability in the region.

Governor Zulum expressed profound appreciation to the Nigerian Navy for its strategic intervention and foresight, describing their role as critical not only to regional security but also to economic recovery.

> “This operation will bring multiple benefits including enhanced navigation and trade, revitalisation of fishing activities, increased agricultural productivity, improved security, and the restoration of livelihoods,” he said.

Also addressing the gathering, the Force Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Major General Godwin Michael Mutkut, lauded the commitment of both the Borno State Government and the leadership of the Lac Province for their sustained efforts against insurgency and for championing initiatives that promote regional revitalisation.

Governor of the Lake Chad Province, General Sale Haggar Tidjani, described the dredging project as the beginning of a new era for the Lake Chad Basin. He noted that the initiative would facilitate the movement of heavy-lift boats from the Baga jetty to open waters, boosting trade and strengthening cross-border connections.

In his remarks, the Emir of the Lake Chad Province, Youssouf Mbodou Mbani, expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Borno State Government and security agencies for their unwavering support. He affirmed that the project would drive inclusive economic development and promote sustainable growth across the region.

Accompanying the Deputy Governor to the occasion were Deputy Chief of Staff to the Governor, Engr. Mustapha Malumbe; Member of the State Assembly representing Kukawa, Karta Maina Maji Lawan; Commissioner for Local Government and Emirate Affairs, Hon. Sugun Mai Mele; Hon. Zanna Jabu; Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Alhaji Modu Alhaji Musa; and Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Internal Security, Aminu Chamalwa, among others.

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