BY OKONKWO ANTHONY UCHE
In a significant boost to regional security, the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) has received support from the European Union for 20 nautical platforms via COGINTA, a peace and security Non-Governmental Organization.
The support for the nautical platforms was presented on 18 August 2023 during a ceremony held in N’Djamena, Chad.
While receiving the platforms, the Force Commander of MNJTF, Major General Ibrahim Sallau Ali, stated that the support highlighted the continued global commitment towards countering insurgency and fostering sustainable peace across the region.
General Ali described the support as a collective desire for peace, stability, and prosperity in the Lake Chad Basin region. He acknowledged further assistance from COGINTA and the EU in building the capacity of potential operators of the platform in enhancing navigation skills and maintenance.
In his remarks, the representative of the EU Ambassador to Chad, Thierry Marotte, stated that the importance the EU places on peace, security, and development necessitates its support for MNJTF. He added that the EU has been providing various support to the mission to ensure a peaceful and prosperous Lake Chad Basin Region.
The support from the EU through COGINTA demonstrates the international community’s commitment to the collective effort of bringing peace and stability to the region. The nautical platforms will provide the MNJTF with increased mobility and operational capabilities by improving patrols and control of the Lake Chad islands, which have often been used as hideouts by insurgent groups.
The Force Commander expressed optimism that the delivery of these platforms will significantly enhance the MNJTF’s ability to combat terrorism and secure the region
