The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has established a sub-committee to collaborate with heads of security agencies in a bid to swiftly address the nation’s mounting security challenges.
This development was announced by Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State in the early hours of Thursday while presenting a communique issued after the forum’s second meeting of the year, held late Wednesday night in Abuja. The communique was signed by the NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
Uzodinma explained that the governors’ decision was influenced by their appreciation for an innovative, technology-based security solution presented by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) during the meeting.
“The Forum received a presentation from the CDS on an innovative security initiative aimed at strengthening national and sub-national capacity for early threat detection and coordinated response,” Uzodinma said.
He noted that the project involves the phased deployment of advanced surveillance technology and infrastructure, designed to enhance crisis management and public safety across the country.
Governors, he added, expressed strong support for the initiative’s goals and emphasized the importance of leveraging technology to address the evolving nature of security threats at the state level. They also commended the CDS and the Nigerian military for their efforts and forward-thinking approach.
In addition to the security discussions, the forum also received a presentation from the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Dangiwa, who advocated for Federal-State collaboration on land reform. Dangiwa detailed plans under the Renewed Hope Programme to unlock the economic potential of land through improved registration, tenure security, and internally generated revenue.
The forum was also briefed on a proposed strategic partnership with Powercom Smart Grid Nigeria Limited (PSGN), aimed at revitalizing the country’s electricity distribution sector. Under the plan, PSGN would manage select distribution companies, deploy smart grid technology, and establish a meter production facility to improve power delivery nationwide.
Meanwhile, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State weighed in on recent security incidents across the country. He cautioned against viewing these as failures on the part of governors, stressing their constitutionally limited role in security matters.
“In my opinion, it is not an indictment. We have limited roles concerning the constitution of Nigeria,” Sani stated. He emphasized the need for joint efforts between all stakeholders and advocated for the creation of state police to effectively tackle insecurity at the grassroots level.
The NGF meeting underscores growing concerns over security and infrastructure and signals a renewed commitment by state leaders to collaborate with the federal government and private sector in driving lasting solutions.
