Borno govt moves to reopen key waterway linking Nigeria and Chad

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno has announced that the state government is working with security agencies and authorities in Chad to reopen the waterway linking Baga town to the neighbouring country.

Governor Zulum made the disclosure on Saturday during a visit to Baga, where he held high-level security meetings with military commanders.

The governor said discussions focused on modalities for clearing the water route, which has remained inaccessible due to insurgent activities.

His words: “Our visit to Baga was to interface with the Nigerian military to discuss the modalities for clearing waterways from Baga to the Republic of Chad.

“We have discussed many issues, and insha Allah, the clearance exercise will resume very soon. The governments of Chad and Nigeria are working together to determine how commodities will move between the two countries.”

Governor Zulum said reopening the waterway is critical to restoring trade, commerce and cooperation between Nigeria and Chad.

The governor noted that the route had served as an important economic corridor for communities in the Lake Chad region before insecurity disrupted activities.

He said the discussions with military commanders in Baga and Kukawa centred on ensuring the safe reopening of the waterway.

Governor Zulum also announced plans to support farmers and returnee fishing communities in the area, adding that the state government would distribute farming tools, agricultural implements and improved seedlings to boost agricultural production.

He stated that the intervention would complement efforts to revive economic activities following the reopening of the waterway.