From HASSAN JIRGI Maiduguri
Borno State governor, Babagana Zulum has expressed commitment to strengthen economic ties with the Republic of Chad, in a bid to revive trade and socio-economic activities disrupted by the more than a decade-long Boko Haram insurgency.
The governor made the announcement while hosting a Chadian delegation led by General Abdulkarim Idris Derby Itno, who visited to express sympathy over the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri.
During the visit, Zulum announced plans for a reciprocal visit to Chad to meet 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.
The governor commended President Derby’s leadership in the fight against Boko Haram and extended condolences on the recent loss of Chadian military officers.
Responding, General Derby conveyed President Derby’s sympathy to the people of Borno, following the recent flood disaster.
He described the people of Borno and Chad as sharing 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 insurgents.
