Governors of the 19 Northern states have renewed their commitment to tackling insecurity and accelerating development across the region at a meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum held in Abuja.
Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Radda was represented at the meeting by his deputy, Faruk Lawal Jobe.
Speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, said the region had recorded some improvement in security since its last meeting in December 2025, but warned that sustained efforts were needed to address emerging threats.
He stressed that the forum remained committed to supporting the Federal Government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in tackling security challenges nationwide.
Yahaya disclosed that the planned Northern States Security Trust Fund—under which each state is expected to contribute ₦1 billion monthly—would strengthen regional security operations. He commended states that had already begun payments and urged others to comply promptly.
The chairman also revealed that governors had agreed to contribute towards the construction of a permanent secretariat for the forum to enhance coordination and policy implementation.
On security reforms, the forum reiterated its support for the establishment of state police, describing localised policing as critical to addressing the region’s complex security challenges.
He further emphasised the need to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty, unemployment, and illiteracy, particularly the rising number of out-of-school children.
The governors also pledged to collaborate with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to prevent farmer-herder clashes ahead of the rainy season, while supporting ongoing livestock reforms.
In a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the forum reaffirmed its unity and commitment to strengthening collaboration among member states. It also resolved to pursue digital reforms, explore new revenue opportunities, and sustain engagement on energy development projects.
The governors called on Nigerians to support the President, security agencies, and ongoing efforts to improve security across the country.
