Governors of the 19 Northern states met in Kaduna on Monday. Traditional rulers also attended. Together, they agreed on new steps to tackle rising insecurity in the region.
The meeting took place at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House. Members of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council led the discussions. Leaders described the talks as timely and necessary.
In a communiqué, NSGF Chairman, Governor Inuwa Yahaya, said the Northern governor leadership remains committed to unity, stability, and shared development.
Northern Governor Pushes Stronger Inter-State Cooperation
The forum stressed that states must work together. Cooperation remains key to defeating banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings.
The Northern governor leaders expressed condolences to Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Kano over recent killings and abductions.
They also sympathised with victims of Boko Haram attacks in Borno and Yobe.
Northern Governor Praises Tinubu and Security Agencies
The governors praised President Bola Tinubu for helping to secure the safe rescue of abducted children. They also commended ongoing federal security efforts.
In addition, they honoured soldiers and officers fighting insurgents across the country.
As a result, the Northern governor bloc promised fresh support for expanded military operations.
Northern Governor Supports State Police and Mining Suspension
In one major decision, the Northern governor forum backed the creation of State Police. Lawmakers were urged to speed up the legal process.
The forum also blamed illegal mining for worsening insecurity. Therefore, it asked the President to approve a six-month suspension of mining activities. This pause will allow proper license checks with state governments.
Northern Governor Creates Regional Security Trust Fund
The governors approved a Regional Security Trust Fund to strengthen operations.
Each state and its local councils will pay ₦1 billion monthly. These funds will be deducted at source.
Finally, the Northern governor body said it will meet again. The date will be announced later.
