The Federal Government and the Borno State Government have reaffirmed their strong commitment to sustaining and strengthening the operations of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin, in a renewed push to eliminate terrorism and consolidate peace across the region.
The reaffirmation was made at a strategic engagement involving federal authorities, Borno State officials and senior security stakeholders, where participants reviewed ongoing security operations and regional cooperation efforts against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists.
Federal Government’s Commitment
The Federal Government said its continued support for the MNJTF is in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which places premium importance on national security, regional stability and the protection of lives and property.
Federal officials noted that the MNJTF remains a vital security framework for intelligence sharing, joint military operations and border surveillance among Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon. They assured that Nigeria would continue to provide strategic, operational and diplomatic backing to ensure the task force remains effective in neutralising insurgent threats and preventing cross-border attacks.
Borno State’s Perspective
The Borno State Government reaffirmed its unwavering support for the MNJTF, describing the force as instrumental to the improved security situation recorded in several parts of the state.
State officials said sustained MNJTF operations have enabled the gradual return of normalcy, including the reopening of communities, schools and markets previously affected by insurgency.
They pledged continued collaboration with the Nigerian military and regional partners, particularly in civil-military coordination, community engagement and post-conflict recovery initiatives.
Regional Security Angle
Security experts at the meeting emphasised that terrorism in the Lake Chad Basin remains a transnational threat requiring collective and sustained action.
They acknowledged the gains recorded by the MNJTF through coordinated offensives and joint patrols, but stressed the need for consistent funding, modern equipment and enhanced intelligence capabilities to consolidate progress.
Participants also called for deeper cooperation among member states to address emerging security challenges such as arms trafficking, illicit trade and terrorist financing.
Humanitarian and Development
Outlook
From a humanitarian standpoint, stakeholders noted that improved security through MNJTF operations would facilitate access for humanitarian agencies and accelerate recovery and development programmes in conflict-affected communities.
They stressed that lasting peace in the Lake Chad region depends not only on military success but also on rebuilding livelihoods, resettling displaced persons and restoring public confidence in governance.
Outlook
The Federal Government and the Borno State Government concluded by reiterating their resolve to work closely with MNJTF member countries, development partners and local communities to ensure sustained peace and stability in the Lake Chad Basin.
They expressed optimism that with continued political will, regional cooperation and operational effectiveness, the MNJTF would remain a cornerstone in the fight against terrorism in the sub-region.