Northern States Governors Monarchs Meet Over Security, Economic Challenges
In a significant meeting held today, the Northern States Governors’ Forum convened with the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, comprising Emirs and Chiefs, to address pressing security and socio-economic challenges in the region. The meeting was chaired by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State and included a briefing from Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, who highlighted ongoing security threats across the North.
The Forum extended condolences to victims of recent calamities, including devastating floods in Maiduguri and a tragic tanker explosion in Jigawa State. They expressed solidarity with those impacted by terrorism and banditry, committing to collaborate with federal authorities and relevant agencies to provide support and relief.
Emphasizing the vital role of traditional institutions in fostering peace and security, the Forum recognized their capacity to bridge governmental and communal divides. They advocated for increasing traditional leaders’ involvement in combating crimes such as kidnapping, banditry, and communal clashes.
While acknowledging recent successes in eliminating criminal leaders, the Forum stressed the need for sustained efforts to maintain peace and commended the military’s progress, particularly highlighting General Musa’s innovative approach to security.
The meeting also addressed youth unrest displayed during the recent “End Bad Governance” protests, vowing to invest in education and job creation to redirect youthful energies into productive endeavors.
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On an additional note, the Forum raised concerns about electricity outages caused by infrastructure vandalism across Northern States, urging federal authorities to enhance energy resilience through the construction of new transmission lines.
Recognizing the agricultural potential of Northern Nigeria, the Forum committed to supporting farmers with financial aid, modern techniques, and infrastructure improvements. They emphasized agriculture’s critical role in addressing food security and stimulating economic growth.
Further, the governors commended the Federal Government’s efforts in reforming the livestock sector and pledged to support these initiatives to ensure their success. They reiterated the importance of infrastructure improvements to combat the climate crisis, particularly concerning the recent floods.
In response to educational challenges, the Forum voiced its support for initiatives aimed at tackling the issue of out-of-school children.
The discussion also covered the recent Tax Reform Bill that has been sent to the National Assembly, which the Forum criticized for disproportionately impacting Northern interests, particularly regarding Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution. They have called on legislators to reject amendments that could harm the region’s welfare.
Assuring citizens that the Forum is committed to equitable national policies, they reiterated their commitment to the region’s growth while urging calm during this period of economic hardship, emphasizing that both state and federal governments are actively seeking solutions.
The meeting concluded with a collective resolve to address the myriad challenges facing Northern Nigeria with unity and determination.
The communiqué was signed by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Chair of the Northern States Governors’ Forum.
