The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) in a historic joint session with the Chairmen of the Northern States Traditional Rulers’ Council, convened on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna, reaffirmed a united front in addressing security and developmental challenges across Northern Nigeria.
Present at the high-level meeting were the Governors of all 19 Northern States and the Chairmen of their respective Traditional Rulers’ Councils. The gathering underscored the critical need for nonpartisan collaboration, mutual accountability, and the leveraging of local intelligence and governance structures to confront the pressing issues facing the region.
After a comprehensive review of key matters, particularly the deteriorating security situation, the Forum issued a communique outlining the following resolutions:
- Commendation to the Presidency:
The Forum applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his consistent commitment to tackling insecurity and infrastructure deficits in Northern Nigeria. - Increased Support for Security Agencies:
The Forum resolved to partner with the Nigerian Governors’ Forum to formulate enhanced support mechanisms for federal security agencies operating in the region. - Strengthening Local Security Initiatives:
Recognizing the importance of grassroots vigilance, the Forum committed to bolstering unique local strategies tailored to individual state security challenges. - Inter-State Surveillance Collaboration:
An agreement was reached to establish inter-state platforms aimed at coordinating surveillance efforts, particularly across shared borders, to curb cross-border threats. - State Police Advocacy:
The Forum reiterated strong support for the creation of State Police and called on the National Assembly to expedite the enactment of the necessary legal framework to enable its prompt implementation. - Next Meeting Date Set:
The Forum scheduled its next meeting for August 30, 2025, to review progress and strategize on emerging issues.
The communique was officially signed by the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, His Excellency Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, CON, Governor of Gombe State.
The joint meeting marks a renewed commitment by political and traditional leadership in Northern Nigeria to forge a path of peace, security, and regional development through unity and proactive governance.
