By Dianabasi Effiong
The United Nations (UN) has commended the Republics of Nigeria and Cameroon for their commitments towards implementing the International Court of Justice (ICJ’s) ruling on their border dispute.
Leonardo Simão, the UN Secretary-General’s Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel, said this while speaking at the 5th Lake Chad Governors’ Forum on Wednesday in Maiduguri.
Simão, therefore, described the development as a significant step toward promoting regional peace and cooperation.
“I commend both countries for their commitment to a peaceful resolution, which has been pivotal in fostering stability in the Lake Chad region,” he said.
Simão also said that the peaceful implementation of the ICI’s ruling had further contributed to regional stability and facilitated efforts to support affected populations, promote sustainable development, and enhance social cohesion.
He praised the role of the Lake Chad Basin member states and governors in fostering cross-border collaboration to achieve lasting peace and economic recovery.
“I acknowledge the efforts invested by the governors and member states over the years to foster inclusiveness and collaboration across borders in the quest for sustainable peace and development in the Lake Chad area.
“While efforts to combat terrorism have begun yielding positive results, new challenges have emerged, demanding sustained and focused attention from all stakeholders,” Simão said.
He, however, called on Lake Chad Basin countries to fully take ownership of the Adjusted Strategy for Stabilisation, Recovery, and Resilience, which was designed to guide future interventions in the region.
“In this regard, I welcome the proposal to adjust the Territorial Action Plan as a key mechanism for advancing the regional strategy at national and local levels,” he stated.
Simão assured that the UN, through its Resident Coordinators and country teams, would remain key partner in ensuring a coordinated and sustainable approach to stabilisation.
Similarly, Anunna Eziakonwa, the UN Assistant Secretary-General, UNDP Assistant Administrator, and Regional Director for Africa, called for stronger regional cooperation.
Eziakonwa expressed optimism that the region could address its challenges through stronger regional cooperation, inclusive governance, and increased investment in climate resilience.
“We are gathered here at a time when this region has witnessed the fury of nature,” she said.
The envoy, however, extended her condolences to the people of Borno in Nigeria and the people of Marwa in Cameroon who were severely affected by recent devastating floods.
The envoy called for a paradigm shift in how stabilisation efforts were approached, urging regional leaders to focus on inclusion, accountability, and sustainable solutions.
“Governance must be strengthened, youth and women must be empowered, and climate adaptation must be accelerated.
“By investing in people and communities, we lay the foundation for lasting peace and stability,” Eziakonwa said
