Northern governors vow to counter new security challenges

The Northern State Governors’ Forum has reaffirmed its commitment to building on recent security gains in the region, with a focus on eliminating emerging threats, as disclosed by Chairman Gov. Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State at a news conference in Abuja on Monday.

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This resolve was reached after a meeting to discuss critical matters affecting peace, stability, and progress in the northern region, which Yahaya noted had previously been confronted with a deeply troubling security situation in December 2025.

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According to Yahaya, the collective efforts of the forum and the support of the Federal Government have led to a measurable improvement in the security situation across parts of Northern Nigeria, but he emphasized that there is no room for complacency.

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Yahaya stressed that sustaining and intensifying efforts to consolidate on the gains recorded is crucial, and that conscious efforts will be made to ensure peace and security take firm root across the region, as safety remains the foundation for development.

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The governor noted that the forum's efforts to strengthen and restructure itself are already yielding results, and that it will continue to take on greater responsibilities in shaping the future of northern Nigeria.

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Yahaya assured that the forum will enhance coordination, ensure continuity, and improve its capacity for strategic engagement and policy implementation, building on the progress made so far.

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The forum had previously taken the decision to establish the Northern States Security Trust Fund, with each state committed to contributing one billion Naira monthly, representing a bold step toward strengthening regional security architecture.

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Yahaya commended states that have started paying their contributions and urged others to follow suit, emphasizing that the effectiveness of the fund depends on collective commitment and consistency.

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As the forum deliberates on the fund's operational framework, each state is required to nominate a trustee to strengthen oversight and internal governance, according to Yahaya.

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The governor noted that the forum has been at the forefront of the national conversation on state police, consistently advocating for localized, intelligence-driven responses to security challenges.

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Yahaya commended President Bola Tinubu for his leadership and support toward advancing state police reform, particularly his commitment to working with the National Assembly to create a constitutional framework for state policing.

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The forum will continue to lend full support to the state police initiative as part of its broader strategy to secure the northern region, Yahaya said.

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He urged the governors of the region to address the recurring issue of farmer-herder conflicts, especially ahead of the raining season, which has historically posed significant threats to peace and agricultural productivity.

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Yahaya commended the 19 northern state governors for their cooperation, solidarity, and commitment to the ideals of the forum, expressing confidence that together, they will overcome challenges and build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Nigeria.