Northern Governors Decry Escalating Insecurity

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The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has expressed deep concern over the worsening security situation in the region, particularly the killings attributed to Boko Haram.

The governors emphasized that the resurgence of Boko Haram activities in parts of the North-East and the outbreak of violent killings in the North-Central necessitate an immediate review of strategies and enhanced collaboration between federal, state, and local security agencies.

Chairman of the NSGF, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, highlighted the need for improved synergy between security agencies at different levels of government.

This call was made during a joint meeting of the NSGF and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council in Kaduna.

The governors extended their condolences to the governments and people of Plateau, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, and Yobe states over the recent violent attacks in their regions. This gesture underscores the solidarity among Northern states in addressing the security challenges posed by Boko Haram and other threats.

“These mindless acts of violence against innocent citizens remind us of the urgent need to redouble our security efforts and ensure that adequate security measures are vigorously implemented for the safety of our people.”

The call for a review of strategies and greater synergy between security agencies is a step towards addressing the root causes of insecurity and protecting citizens.

“The position we took on the tax reform bills engendered the reactions of a broad spectrum of Nigerians. I am pleased to report that through the platform of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the National Economic Council, and in consultation with the leadership of the National Assembly, we found a way forward that will lead to a mutually beneficial resolution of the matter.

“This demonstrates the power of constructive engagement and I commend Mr. President for his listening ear and commitment to inclusive governance.

“We recommend that, going forward, such a collaborative approach should guide all matters of intergovernmental relations in the interest of the people.

“The state of infrastructure in Northern Nigeria remains a cause for major concern. While we acknowledge President Tinubu’s commitment to completing the ongoing Kaduna-Kano-Katsina-Maradi rail line, the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano expressway, and the AKK gas pipeline among many others, other projects like the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line, Kano-Maiduguri expressway, and Akwanga-Jos-Bauchi-Gombe-Biu expressway, which were awarded in the past, remain in a serious state of neglect.

“In the same vein, no state of the North-East was captured in the federal government’s superhighway project.

“On the economic front, The New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) was once the pride of Northern Nigeria and with proper restructuring, competent management and effective oversight, we can restore it to its former glory as a catalyst for regional economic development.

“The ongoing reform of the NNDC presents us with a golden opportunity to revive the economic fortunes of our region. While that has started, we must see to its successful implementation to actualize its lofty objectives.”

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