NSGF deliberates on way forward for brighter north … says, security top most on agenda

NSGF deliberates on way forward for brighter north

… says, security top most on agenda

Zainab Tanimu

Kaduna, Northwest Nigeria

The Northern State Governors Forum (NSGF) has again reaffirmed its willingness to work with the Federal Government to provide lasting solutions to the security challenges bedevilling the region.

This was contained in the Northern States Governors Forum Chairman’s speech delivered at the ongoing NSGF meeting in government house Kaduna, today,Tuesday, 30th April, 2024.

The Governor of Gombe State, Chairman, Northern States Governors Forum,  Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya in his speech stressed on the need to strengthening commitments and collaborative efforts as that will not only help in addressing the challenges  bedeviling the north but also usher in development to the region.

His words:

“It is with great humility and a sense of responsibility that I address you once again as the Chairman of the Northern States Governors Forum.

“As we convene today, I am reminded of the collective strength and resilience of our northern people, and I am honoured to lead our efforts in addressing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

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On security issues and committed efforts, he said.

Security remains top on our agenda.

Let me use this opportunity to express our deepest sympathy and unflinching support to our colleagues and the people of Kaduna, Katsina, Niger, Plateau and Zamfara States, who have been facing unprecedented security challenges recently. Let us stand together in solidarity by offering our firm commitment to supporting our fellow northern brethren during these difficult times.

During our last meeting, we reaffirmed our willingness to work with the Federal Government in order to provide lasting solutions to the security challenges bedevilling our region. Since then, we have had various engagements with the National Security Adviser, service chiefs, coalition of northern civil society groups, and other relevant stakeholders on charting a way forward for sustainable peace and stability in northern Nigeria.

“As the nation continues to deliberate on the issue of state police, it is important that we begin to explore state policing models that are built on the foundation of cooperation and collaboration amongst our northern states.

“Economic development is paramount to our region’s prosperity. We consider economic development as the long-term solution to our security challenges. In this regard, the revitalization of the New Nigeria Development Company (NNDC) is at the heart of our economic agenda for northern Nigeria. We must also explore innovative ways to invest in critical infrastructure capable of unlocking the huge industrial and economic potentials of the northern region. I urge us not to lose focus, but to strive, sustain and enhance the legacies of our founding fathers.

“Environmental sustainability is equally crucial to both our present and future. Climate change, unsustainable agricultural practices, and population growth pose significant challenges to our communities. We must adopt holistic approaches that promote environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, and responsible resource management so as to safeguard the livelihoods of our people and preserve our natural heritage for generations yet unborn.

“Human capital development is very critical to the progress and prosperity of our region. It is deeply troubling that Northern Nigeria currently bears the burden of the highest number of out-of-school children in the world. This is an unacceptable reality that we must urgently address. Every child deserves access to quality education and the opportunity to develop the skills necessary to succeed in today’s rapidly changing global economic landscape. As leaders, we have a moral obligation to invest massively in education and skills development, healthcare, and social services in order to unlock the full potential of our youth and empower future generations.

“Regional integration remains a cornerstone of our collective vision for a prosperous northern region. Let us deepen our collaborations in infrastructure development, human capital enhancement, trade, security cooperation, and cultural exchange. Together, we can unlock the full potentials of our region and ensure inclusive growth and shared prosperity in the ever-competitive Federal Republic of Nigeria.

I would like to thank our host governor, the governor of Kaduna State, and my other governor-colleagues for honouring this meeting. This meeting is a demonstration of our collective resolve, determination and unity. Our people are looking up to us in this period of extraordinary challenges. We cannot afford to fail them. I am confident that with your support and cooperation, we will overcome any obstacle and achieve our shared aspirations for a brighter future for the northern region and Nigeria at large.