The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has emphasized the strategic importance of recharging Lake Chad to the military’s ongoing counterterrorism efforts in Nigeria’s North East region.
Speaking during a reassessment visit to the Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai at the 7 Division, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, General Musa said restoring the lake would boost naval operations and facilitate the elimination of terrorist elements operating around 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,”;; he stated.
The Defence Chief underscored the dual security and economic significance of Lake Chad, noting that it supports the livelihoods of more than 50 million people across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. He said the restoration project also holds the potential to create jobs for up to 20 million young people in the region.
General Musa’s comments come amid renewed attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents on military formations and communities in Borno and Yobe states. He described the resurgence as a “temporary setback”;; triggered by increased pressure on terrorist groups in the Sahel, which has led to a shift in their operational focus toward the porous borders of the Lake Chad Basin.
“What we are witnessing is an eclipse — a reaction to pressure on terrorist groups in the Sahel,”;; he said. “We are working diligently to address these challenges.”;;
He reassured Nigerians that the Armed Forces, in collaboration with other security agencies, are developing new strategies and deploying advanced weaponry to reinforce the counterterrorism 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 said.
General Musa called on all citizens to support the military’s efforts, stressing that national security requires collective commitment. “Security is a shared responsibility. Every Nigerian has a role to play in ensuring peace,”;; he added.
