Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe has been elected as the new chairman of the Lake Chad Basin Governors’ Forum.

Mr Buni was elected during an extraordinary session of the governors’ meeting on Friday in Maiduguri, Borno State capital.

The theme of the forum is: “Rebuilding the Lake Chad Basin: Consolidating Gains, Commitment to Peace, Cross-Border Cooperation, Security, and Sustainable Development for a Resilient Community”.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Buni pledged to serve with dedication and responsibility and thanked his colleagues for the confidence reposed in him.

He lauded President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and commitment to ensuring the region’s peace, security and development.

“I wish to start by expressing my personal appreciation and profound gratitude of the government and people of Yobe State to Your Excellencies, my colleagues, the Governors of the Lake Chad Basin region, delegates, as well as all other stakeholders for attending and also contributing to making this event a success story,” he said.

The governor further expressed hope that the lessons and resolutions from the meeting would be implemented effectively.

Mr Buni emphasised the need for robust partnerships, support and resource allocation to achieve the shared goals of building a better and prosperous region.

He stressed his readiness to collaborate with his colleagues and development partners to fast-track sustainable social and economic development of the region.

While commending the outgoing chairperson, Ildjima Abdraman, governor of Hadjer Lamis Province of Chad, Mr Buni thanked the participants for their support and wished them a safe trip.

(NAN)