By Anwar Usman
A meeting between the Northern Governors Forum and Northern Traditional Rulers Council is currently underway in Kaduna. The two groups hope to tackle the region’s pressing security and developmental challenges.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, was in attendance at the meeting, which took place at the state government House.
While welcoming his colleagues, Muhammadu Yahaya, Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, called for collective action to tackle the challenges bedevilling the region.
The region is battling insecurity, economic hardship, environmental degradation, and youth restiveness.
Yahaya reiterated the need for collective action. He said, “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.”
The governor also acknowledged these challenges. He said, “Terrorism, banditry, kidnap-for-ransom, farmer-herder clashes, drug abuse, the menace of Almajiri and out-of-school children, poverty, and unemployment. We must continue to work with the Federal Government and relevant agencies to provide the necessary support and relief to those affected.”
The governors proposed various ways to tackle these challenges, 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.
“Investing in education, skills development, and job creation; supporting small and medium enterprises; attracting investment to northern states; 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.”
In his remarks earlier, Kaduna Governor and chief host, Senator Uba Sani, welcomed his colleagues and traditional rulers in the region and the Chief of Defence, General Christopher Musa, emphasising unity and collective action against regional challenges.
Sani also acknowledged the northern Governors’ commitment to peaceful coexistence and shared prosperity, urging, “We must work together to realize our vision of a secure, peaceful, and prosperous North.”
The Governor 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.