Northern States Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council have warned that the North risks losing its future to rising terrorism and worsening poverty unless urgent constitutional reforms—especially the creation of State Police—are carried out.
The warning came on Monday during an emergency meeting in Kaduna involving all 19 northern governors, traditional rulers led by the Sultan of Sokoto, and security chiefs.
Insecurity and Poverty Threaten the North
Forum Chairman and Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, described the region as facing a “grim reality” of insecurity and deprivation that endangers its social and economic stability. He said leaders will be judged not by infrastructure projects but by their ability to secure the region for future generations.
Yahaya urged an end to political divisions, stressing that the violence affects everyone regardless of status or religion.
Push for State Police
The governors renewed their call for State Police, insisting the current federal policing structure is overstretched. They urged the National Assembly to fast-track constitutional amendments allowing states to manage security tailored to their local needs.
Tackling Root Causes
The Forum also cited underdevelopment, mass illiteracy, mismanaged resources, climate challenges, and the growing number of out-of-school children as drivers of instability. Traditional and religious leaders were urged to promote peace and counter divisive rhetoric.
Backing Federal Efforts
The governors commended President Bola Tinubu for efforts to protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and rescue abducted schoolchildren. They expressed condolences to families affected by recent kidnappings and insurgent attacks across several states.
Regional Unity
Hosted by Kaduna Governor Uba Sani, the meeting ended with a commitment to coordinate more closely with the Federal Government and adopt a unified regional strategy combining security operations with justice reforms and social welfare initiatives.
