The Federal Government has taken a significant step to address the intertwined challenges of climate change and conflict in Nigeria's troubled North-East region.
On Tuesday, 3rd December 2025, the government, acting through the Office for Strategic Preparedness and Resilience (OSPRE) and with backing from the Heinrich Böll Foundation, officially launched the findings of the Resilience and Environmental Sustainability of Resettled Enclaves (RESTORE) Project.
Unpacking the Climate-Conflict Nexus in Lake Chad
The comprehensive study zeroes in on the Lake Chad Basin, an area recognised as one of Nigeria's most fragile zones both ecologically and security-wise. The RESTORE Project Report meticulously analyses how environmental degradation, climate shocks, and ongoing conflict dynamics converge to drive displacement and complicate resettlement efforts.
Amina Wali, the Communications Manager for OSPRE, confirmed the launch in a press statement. She stated that the initiative falls squarely within OSPRE's core mandate to bolster the nation's systems for preparedness and building long-term resilience against complex threats.
Leadership Emphasizes Urgency and Collaboration
The Country Director of the Heinrich Böll Foundation, Sophie von Knebel, was quoted stressing the critical need to confront the climate-conflict link in the Lake Chad region without delay. Her comments underscore the project's timeliness and relevance.
In his remarks, the Director General of OSPRE, Mr. Chris Ngwodo, highlighted the national importance of the research. "The RESTORE Project represents an essential step toward understanding how climate shocks, environmental pressures, and conflict dynamics intersect to shape displacement and resettlement patterns in the North-East," Ngwodo said.
He further elaborated on the project's goal: "Our goal at OSPRE is to ensure that government and civil society actors have the evidence and tools they need to build resilient communities, strengthen preparedness, and support the long-term recovery of this region." He expressed gratitude for the collaboration with the Heinrich Böll Foundation, noting that their partnership was instrumental in bringing the work to fruition.
Pathway to Sustainable Recovery
The launch of the RESTORE Project Report marks a pivotal move from analysis to action. By providing a detailed evidence base, the Federal Government aims to craft more effective, sustainable, and climate-resilient strategies for resettling displaced populations. The focus is on ensuring that communities in the North-East are not just rebuilt, but are fortified against future environmental and security shocks, paving the way for lasting stability and recovery in the region.
