By Hussaina Yakubu
The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council, have lauded the Federal Government and security agencies on the fight against banditry and other forms of criminalities in the country.
They gave the commendation after a meeting of the NSGF and the traditional rulers in the three geo-political zones – Northwest, Northeast and Northcentral – led by Sultan of Sokoto Sa’ad Abubakar III.
The meeting, which held in Kaduna, was chaired by Forum chairman and Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Yahaya, who presented the communique.
The Forum acknowledged the recent gains made against criminals, especially the elimination of bandits and their leaders.
The forum also resolved to sustain these gains to ensure lasting peace and stability in the sub-region.
“Particularly, we commend the untiring commitment of the Chief of Defence Staff General C. G Musa whose professionalism and innovative approach have made a difference in the security architecture of the Country at large.
“Nevertheless, more needs to be done to address pockets of challenges that abound in the Northern Region,” the forum noted.
Members extended condolences to communities affected by recent tragedies, including flood victims in Maiduguri and families impacted by a tragic tanker explosion in Jigawa.
The governors emphasized the critical role of traditional institutions in fostering peace and bridging government community relations.
They expressed support for increased involvement of traditional leaders in combating kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of criminality.
In response to youth unrest and the recent “End Bad Governance” protests, the forum committed to bolstering education, skill development, and employment opportunities to channel youth energy into productive avenues, reducing vulnerability to crime and social vices.
They also urged the Federal Government to address power blackouts caused by infrastructure vandalism, advocating for enhanced energy resilience through new transmission lines and energy diversification.
The governors highlighted Northern Nigeria’s agricultural potential, proposing support for farmers and investments in agro-allied industries, including the revival of the textile sector.
They also pledged to support federal livestock reform initiatives, acknowledging agriculture as a critical driver for economic growth and job creation.
The forum raised concerns over the recent Tax Reform Bill, rejecting the proposed shift to a derivation-based VAT distribution model, which they argue would disproportionately impact Northern states.
They called on National Assembly members to oppose any amendments that might compromise the region’s economic well-being.
The NSGF also appealed for calm amidst ongoing economic challenges, assuring citizens that the state and Federal Government are working to alleviate the burden.(NAN)
