Abuja:The Niger Basin Authority (NBA) has urged stronger regional cooperation and strategic investments to enhance peace, stability, and prosperity in the Niger and Lake Chad basins. This call was made by Mr. Kocou Houanye, Executive Secretary of the NBA, during the Regional Conference on Hydro-Diplomacy and Strategic Investments for Shared Prosperity in Transboundary Basins held in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the conference, jointly organized by the NBA and Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), aimed to provide a neutral platform for dialogue and negotiations on conflicts related to natural resources and environmental challenges. Mr. Houanye emphasized addressing the ecological, socio-economic, and security challenges faced by the regions, which are crucial for the livelihoods of the large populations dependent on their natural resources.
The conference discussed the need for accelerated implementation of strategic investments, particularly in infrastructure and agriculture, as drivers of peace and shared prosperity. Practical recommendations to strengthen synergy among stakeholders and enhance the role of the basin organizations were anticipated outcomes of the event.
The conference will be succeeded by a session of the NBA’s regional steering committee to review past operations and plan future programs. It will also evaluate the activities of dam agencies within the Niger Basin and adopt recommendations to improve ongoing programs.
Progress in the implementation of the Programme for Development and Adaptation to Climate Change in the Niger Basin was highlighted, with significant improvements in both physical and financial aspects. Discussions with development partners are ongoing to expand the program’s coverage to additional member countries, with a focus on sustaining political commitment and mobilizing further strategic investments.
Mrs. Hanna Albrecht from German Cooperation called for coordinated responses to challenges affecting the basins, emphasizing the importance of including women and young people in creating sustainable economic opportunities. She commended the NBA and LCBC for maintaining dialogue among member states and developing joint responses despite challenging conditions.
Ambassador Ibrahim Babani, LCBC Executive Secretary, stressed the importance of protecting water resources and building resilient societies. He highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance water use assessment and demand through advanced mapping tools, emphasizing the role of women and young people in water diplomacy.
Nigeria’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, reaffirmed the country’s commitment to cooperation between the NBA and LCBC. He stressed the importance of translating discussions into concrete actions to address water security, climate resilience, and sustainable development challenges.
Angela Keyede, NBA National Focal Structure, highlighted the conference’s role in promoting gender-responsive approaches to hydrodiplomacy and strategic investments, underscoring the need to include women and vulnerable groups in transboundary water governance.