The Consul General of the Republic of Chad in Maiduguri, Mr. Bisso Youssouf Mbodou Mbami, has called for deeper security and economic collaboration between Nigeria and Chad to effectively combat cross-border crime and insurgency in the Lake Chad Basin region.
Mr. Bisso made the call when he led a delegation from the Chadian Consulate on a courtesy visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri.
In a statement by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Consul General emphasized that enhanced synergy between the two nations’ armed forces is crucial to defeating Boko Haram and other criminal elements threatening regional peace and stability.
He commended the Nigerian military for its resilience and sacrifices in the ongoing counterterrorism operations, describing the cooperation between Nigerian and Chadian forces as a model of regional partnership.
Addressing trade and border concerns, Mr. Bisso urged for sustained dialogue to bridge communication gaps, assuring that the Chadian government was sensitizing its citizens on Nigeria’s trade laws and contraband policies. He noted that “mutual understanding and cooperation are key to sustaining border commerce and trust.”
Responding, the Theatre Commander of OPHK, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, described Chad as “a trusted brother and strategic ally” with whom Nigeria shares long-standing security and cultural ties. He reaffirmed the JTF’s commitment to close collaboration under the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which safeguards shared borders and waterways for the mutual benefit of both nations.
General Abubakar also highlighted the importance of intelligence sharing and operational coordination in securing the region, assuring the Consul General that his concerns would receive due attention. “It is our duty to protect legitimate trade and ensure that goods and livelihoods do not fall into the hands of terrorists,” he said.
The visit provided an avenue for both sides to exchange views on regional stability, cross-border trade, and the welfare of Chadian citizens residing in Nigeria.
Mr. Bisso was accompanied by the Consulate’s Liaison Officer, Major Oumar Tahir Attahir. The visit concluded with the presentation of souvenirs, signing of the visitors’ register, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion.
