A high-level meeting between the Northern Governors Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council is underway in Kaduna, aiming to address pressing security and developmental challenges across Nigeria’s northern region.
The meeting, which brings together key government and military leaders, is held at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim Government House, with the goal of developing collaborative solutions for the region’s ongoing issues.
The gathering includes prominent figures such as Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and is chaired by Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum.
Governor Yahaya highlighted the urgent need for unity and collective action in confronting regional crises. “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,” he stated.
The northern region faces severe issues including insecurity, economic hardship, environmental degradation, and youth unrest. Yahaya listed challenges such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, clashes between farmers and herders, and a rise in out-of-school children.
In his address, he emphasized the need for “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.”
“Investing in education, skills development, and job creation; supporting small and medium enterprises; and attracting investment to northern states; as well providing support to farmers, ensuring rural security, and promoting agro-allied industries.
“Partnering with the Federal Government and stakeholders to build irrigation infrastructure and promote sustainable practices.”
Kaduna State Governor and host, Senator Uba Sani, welcomed his fellow governors, traditional rulers, and the Chief of Defence Staff. He underscored the importance of unity in overcoming the region’s challenges.
Governor Sani praised President Bola Tinubu for his actions to enhance security in the North, referencing the establishment of a Joint Military Command and the launch of Operation Fansan Yamma, which he described as significant efforts by the Federal Government to address insecurity.
Speaking on behalf of the traditional rulers, the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, Chairman of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, affirmed the role of traditional leaders in promoting stability. He called for collaborative efforts to foster peace and progress, saying, “We must work together to ensure our region’s progress.”
The meeting saw the attendance of several governors from across the North, including Bauchi’s Bala Mohammed, Borno’s Prof. Babagana Zulum, Nasarawa’s Abdullahi Sule, Adamawa’s Ahmadu Fintiri, Gombe’s Mohammed Yahaya, and Kaduna’s Uba Sani.
