A joint meeting of the Northern Governors Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council is currently taking place in Kaduna, focusing on the region’s pressing security and developmental challenges.
The meeting, held at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, includes key figures such as Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa.
In his opening remarks, the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, Muhammadu Yahaya, emphasized the need for collective action to tackle the challenges facing the region.
He stated, “Our collective resolve is being tested by the ongoing challenges that we face. However, our unity and commitment to the prosperity of the people remain our greatest source of strength that will enable us to overcome those challenges.”
Yahaya acknowledged that the region is grappling with issues such as “terrorism, banditry, kidnap-for-ransom, farmer-herder clashes, drug abuse, the menace of Almajiri and out-of-school children, poverty, and unemployment.”
He called for continued collaboration with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide necessary support and relief to those affected.
To address these challenges, the governors proposed various solutions, including “sustaining gains against criminals, studying and implementing the Coalition of Northern Group’s Security Committee report, and engaging with security agencies and civil society groups.”
They stressed the importance of investing in education, skills development, and job creation, along with supporting small and medium enterprises and promoting agro-allied industries.
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Kaduna Governor and chief host, Senator Uba Sani, welcomed the attendees and reiterated the importance of unity and collective action against regional challenges.
Sani commended President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to combat insecurity, citing the establishment of a Joint Military Command and Operation Fansan Yamma as “clear demonstrations of the Federal Government’s commitment.” He praised General Musa for his presence and support during the meeting.
Under the leadership of Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya and Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Sani expressed confidence that the forums would effectively address the challenges confronting the North.
Sultan Abubakar highlighted the critical role of traditional rulers in promoting peace and stability, stating, “We must work together to ensure our region’s progress.” The meeting was attended by several regional governors, including Bala Mohammed of Bauchi and Prof.
Babagana Zulum of Borno, as well as deputy governors from other Northern states. This gathering is part of the Northern States Governors’ Forum’s ongoing efforts to engage with key stakeholders and tackle pressing concerns, especially lingering insecurity, poverty, and educational challenges.
As discussions unfold, both Yahaya and Sani underscored the urgency of taking decisive action to improve the region’s situation, reminding attendees that “the people of Northern Nigeria are counting on us to steer them through these challenging times.”
They emphasized the need for comprehensive reforms across all institutions to chart a path forward for a prosperous and forward-looking Northern Nigeria.
