News, Politics

Nigeria Pledges Regional Solidarity as Ambassador Babani Named LCBC Executive Secretary

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 6th, 2026.

Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to regional collaboration in the Lake Chad Basin, following the appointment of Ambassador Ibrahim Babani as the new Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC) for a four-year tenure.

The announcement came during the 71st Council of Ministers session of the LCBC, held in N’Djamena, Republic of Chad, where Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, highlighted the country’s dedication to fostering peace, environmental sustainability, and economic stability across the region.

Speaking at the session, Minister Ojukwu emphasized that the Lake Chad Basin serves as a critical shared resource and lifeline for over 40 million people across member states. She stressed the Commission’s role in promoting food security, environmental stewardship, and regional unity.

Acknowledging ongoing security challenges, the Minister commended the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF)and member states for sustained collaboration against terrorism and violent extremism. At the same time, she raised concerns over climate change, noting the alarming shrinkage of Lake Chad as a major environmental threat. She called for science driven strategies to restore the lake and protect the livelihoods of the millions who depend on it.

Minister Ojukwu also conveyed the appreciation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian government, and the populace for Babani’s endorsement. She described him as a seasoned diplomat with deep expertise in water resources management, security, and regional cooperation.

The Nigerian delegation at the meeting included the Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, and the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Emanso Umobong, among other officials.

Ambassador Babani’s appointment marks a renewed emphasis on regional partnership and a strategic approach to safeguarding the environmental and security interests of the Lake Chad Basin.