By Faridat Salifu
The Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Republic of Cameroon have signed a bilateral Cooperation Framework Agreement under the direction of the Honorable Minister of the Environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal.
The agreement signed on Friday, at the Abuja Continental Hotel was a historic event focusing on the conservation and sustainable management of forestry and wildlife resources across their shared border.
Highlighting the significance of the agreement, Minister Lawal emphasized the urgent need for collaborative efforts in addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, environmental degradation, and transboundary criminal activities such as illegal logging and wildlife trafficking.
He stressed that the agreement signifies a crucial step towards safeguarding the natural resources vital for the socio-economic and environmental well-being of both nations.
With a border spanning over 1,500 km, Minister Lawal underscored the importance of bilateral cooperation in tackling these global challenges effectively.
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He noted the longstanding history of cooperation between Nigeria and Cameroon since 1963, citing previous agreements on various fronts including transboundary security and joint conservation commissions.
The agreement symbolizes a milestone in the establishment of a joint transboundary management framework aimed at enhancing cooperation and coordination between the two countries.
It is expected to facilitate the development and implementation of joint programs and projects for the conservation and sustainable management of transboundary ecosystems.
Minister Lawal expressed gratitude to the Government of Cameroon for their cooperation and commitment to the process, as well as to the numerous national and international partners who have supported the initiative.
He emphasized that while the signing of the agreement marks a starting point, concerted efforts are needed to ensure its successful implementation.
Minister Lawal urged all stakeholders to continue working together towards the effective operationalization of the agreement, underscoring the importance of sustainable resource management for the benefit of present and future generations.
