The Chief of Naval Staff (CoNS), Vice Admiral Idi Abbas, has made a firm commitment to ensure the security of Lake Chad and its surrounding waterways. This move is aimed at revitalising fishing, transportation, and other socio-economic activities in Nigeria's North-East region, which has been devastated by prolonged insurgency.
Military Synergy for Regional Security
Speaking on Thursday, January 1, 2026, in Maiduguri, Vice Admiral Abbas emphasised that effective security for the lake and insurgency-affected communities demands strong collaboration among the military and other security agencies. He stated that this joint effort is crucial to finally ending the protracted conflict that has plagued the area for over a decade.
The naval chief made these remarks during a working visit to naval formations within the Lake Chad Basin, including bases in Baga and along the lake's shores. He briefed journalists at the Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai, located within the Maimalari Cantonment.
Restoring Livelihoods Through Joint Operations
Abbas outlined that the primary goal of the coordinated military action is to restore normalcy and economic vitality. "Our joint military action with security agencies and the Civilian JTF in the Lake Chad and its shores will enable fishermen and farmers to resume their economic activities," he declared. He explained that securing the lake and dozens of connecting waterways is essential for communities across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states.
Beyond the immediate security promise, the CoNS noted that his visit was also to assess the operational needs of troops deployed in the expansive region. The Lake Chad region comprises areas within Chad, Cameroon, Nigeria, and the Niger Republic, requiring a multinational approach.
Denying Terrorists Freedom of Action
The Vice Admiral was clear about the strategic objective of the military's presence. He stated that the coordinated efforts are specifically designed to deny Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists freedom of action on the critical water body. "The military joint action with other security agencies is to deny Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists access to the lake and waterways," Abbas affirmed, highlighting the lifeline these routes represent for both communities and insurgents.
During his visit, the CoNS inspected the ongoing construction of the Maiduguri Naval Base, situated about 10 kilometres east of the city along Monguno Road, before proceeding to the Baga Naval Base. Following his return from Baga, Abbas, accompanied by senior officers from the Theatre Command, was scheduled to pay a courtesy visit to Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum, at the Government House in Maiduguri.
This pledge marks a significant step towards reclaiming the economic potential of Lake Chad, aiming to bring stability and prosperity back to the communities that depend on it.
