Nigeria Seeks to Strengthen Ties with Sahel and Lake Chad Countries Amid Security Concerns
Nigeria is calling for enhanced diplomatic, economic, and security cooperation with countries in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin. This initiative aims to rebuild relations with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) and address regional security and development challenges. Ambassador Sola Enikanolaiye, Nigeria's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, emphasized the need for Nigeria to 'mend fences' with Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The call for cooperation comes amid concerns that developments in these countries have direct implications for Nigeria's national security and economic wellbeing. The proposed Sahel Development Compact aims to shift focus from crisis management to long-term development, promoting infrastructure, trade, and climate resilience. 
