Gov Zulum addressing the delegation at Government House
Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State has expressed the commitment of his administration to strengthening economic ties with the Republic of Chad in a bid to revive trade and socio-economic activities disrupted over the years by the insurgency.
A statement issued on Wednesday by Dauda Iliya, the governor’s spokesman said Zulum made the announcement while hosting a Chadian delegation led by General Abdulkarim Idris Derby Itno, who were in Maiduguri to express sympathy over the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri.
Zulum also announced plans for a reciprocal visit to Chad to meet with President Mahamat Idris Derby Itno to discuss regional economic and trade issues.
“I will soon pay a visit to Chad to discuss matters of mutual interest, particularly the restoration of waterway transport between Baga town and Chad to facilitate commerce,” Zulum stated.
In addition to trade, Zulum said he would coordinate with the chambers of commerce in Chad and northeastern Nigeria to bolster economic partnership between the two countries.
He also announced a planned repatriation of Nigerian citizens currently taking refuge in Baga Sola, Chad.
Gov. Zulum commended President Derby’s leadership in the fight against Boko Haram and extended condolences for the recent loss of Chadian military officers killed in action.
Responding, General Abdelkarim Idris Derby Itno conveyed President Derby’s sympathy to the people of Borno following the recent flooding.
He described people of Borno and Chad as one who share similar cultures and traditions.
According to him, the president is personally leading the war against Boko Haram following the brutal killing of over 40 soldiers by the insurgents.
