NEGF: Governors Seek Multi-Dimensional Solutions to Insecurity in North East
By:Babagana Bukar Wakil, Maiduguri
The North East Governors Forum (NEGF) held its 11th meeting on Thursday, May 1, 2025, in Damaturu, Yobe State. The forum comprises the Governors of Adamawa, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe States, while Bauchi State was represented by its Deputy Governor.
In a joint communique issued at the end of the meeting, readout by the Governor of Taraba State Dr. Agbu Kefas which reaffirmed commitment of the forum to regional cooperation and the collective pursuit of solutions to security, socio-economic, and infrastructural challenges affecting the North East.
Key highlights of the communique include:
Support for Federal Government on Security: The Forum commended the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to improve national security and pledged continued collaboration in tackling emerging threats across the country.
Rising Insurgency Concerns: The governors expressed dismay at the resurgence of insurgent activities in the sub-region. They urged the Armed Forces, security agencies, and community leaders to reassess their strategies and adopt a more effective counter-insurgency approach.
Tackling Root Causes of Insecurity: The Forum emphasized that security challenges must be addressed through a multi-dimensional approach. This includes promoting vocational and technical education, expanding road infrastructure, reducing poverty, and creating youth employment opportunities.
Poor Road Infrastructure: The Forum identified inadequate road networks as a contributor to regional insecurity and underdevelopment. It called on the President to prioritize the completion of abandoned road projects vital to economic integration and security.
Investment and Climate Action: The Forum pledged to open up the region to investment in agriculture and climate resilience initiatives. It underscored the need to empower youth with skills that reduce their vulnerability to insurgent recruitment.
Strengthening NEDC Engagement: The Forum called on the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to align more closely with state governments, prioritize projects in key sectors like transport, education, and health, and ensure timely delivery of all initiatives.
Support for Nigerian Law School Yola Campus: The Forum recognized the importance of the Yola campus of the Nigerian Law School and committed to providing additional infrastructure to support its expansion and enhance learning conditions.
Education and Out-of-School Children: The Forum resolved to work with the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children Education by providing office spaces in each state and supporting mass enrollment into formal, vocational, and technical education.
The next NEGF meeting is scheduled to hold in Jalingo, Taraba State, from July 27 to 29, 2025.
CMQ

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