Nigeria's Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, has identified the recharging of Lake Chad as a crucial element in the military's ongoing counterterrorism campaign in the North East.
Speaking during a reassessment visit to the Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai at the 7 Division, Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri, General Musa emphasized that restoring the lake would significantly enhance naval operations and help eliminate 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 Defense Chief stated.
General Musa highlighted the dual significance of Lake Chad, noting its importance not only for security operations but also for the economic wellbeing of the region. According to him, the lake supports the livelihoods of more than 50 million people across Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, and its restoration could potentially create employment opportunities for up to 20 million young people.
Addressing Recent Security Challenges
The CDS's comments come amid renewed attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) insurgents on military formations and communities in Borno and Yobe states. General Musa described these resurgent attacks as a "temporary setback" resulting from increased pressure on terrorist groups in the Sahel region.
"What we are witnessing is an eclipse — a reaction to pressure on terrorist groups in the Sahel," he explained. "This has led to a shift in their operational focus toward the porous borders of the Lake Chad Basin. We are working diligently to address these challenges."
The Defense Chief 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," General Musa affirmed.
Call for Collective Security Effort
General Musa emphasized that national security requires collective commitment from all citizens. "Security is a shared responsibility. Every Nigerian has a role to play in ensuring peace," he stated, calling on the public to support the military's counterterrorism efforts.
The Defense Chief's visit to Maiduguri is part of ongoing efforts to reassess and strengthen military operations in the region, following his previous visit three weeks ago with the Minister of Defence and other service chiefs.
