Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari forcefully relaunched the Lake Chad Water Transfer Project, known as Transaqua, in a meeting with visiting Chad President Idriss Déby on March 27. Buhari reminded everyone that about 30 million people are adversely affected by a shrunken Lake Chad, which is now just 10% of its original size, insisting: “It is imperative that there be water transfer to the Lake Chad from the Congo Basin, so that the people can resume their normal lives.” His remarks were reported in an official press release from the Presidency. (https://twitter.com/NGRPresident/status/1375815327918006273)
In his statement, President Buhari tweeted: “It is imperative that there be water transfer to the Lake Chad from the Congo Basin, so that the people can resume their normal lives,” President Buhari said.
“President Buhari added that with inter-basin water transfer, farming, fishing, animal husbandry would resume, and curtail irregular migration of youths, who now dare the Sahara Desert and the Mediterranean Sea, to get into Europe, seeking greener pastures.
“`I’ve been engaging with the relevant stakeholders in Africa and beyond, on why we need to recharge Lake Chad. Nigeria will benefit more, but it is also advantageous to everyone.’ — President MBuhari”
Chad President Idriss Déby said that recharging Lake Chad is important not only for the whole of Africa but for the entire world. He counseled the Nigerian President to consider convening an international summit to move the idea forward.
