Isiyaku Ahmed
The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council (NTRC) held a joint meeting on Monday, 1st December 2025, at the Council Chamber, Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna, to address critical regional and national issues.
The meeting brought together the governors of the 19 northern states alongside the chairmen of the region’s 19 traditional rulers’ councils.
After extensive deliberations, the Forum issued a communiqué outlining key resolutions and commitments.
The communique was signed by Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Governor of Gombe State and Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum.
It highlighted the Forum’s commendation of members and traditional rulers for their “steadfast commitment to the unity, security, stability and development of the region.”
The communique stressed that only through unity, cooperation, and peer review can the North effectively confront its pressing challenges.
Expressing condolences and solidarity, the Forum mourned the recent killings and abductions in Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Kano States, as well as victims of Boko Haram attacks in Borno and Yobe States.
The Governors and rulers also lauded the Federal Government, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for efforts in securing the release of abducted children and handling ongoing security challenges.
They commended the sacrifices of Nigerian servicemen and pledged continued support for all federal measures to eradicate insurgency.
On internal security reform, the Forum reaffirmed its “wholehearted support and commitment” to the establishment of State Police, urging legislators to expedite action for its implementation.
Addressing economic and security concerns, the Forum condemned illegal mining as a major driver of insecurity in the North.
It resolved to recommend to the President a six-month suspension of mining activities, with all licenses subject to revalidation in consultation with state governors, to curb artisanal illegal mining.
The Forum announced the creation of a regional Security Trust Fund to combat insecurity, with a monthly contribution of one billion naira from each state and local government, to be deducted at source under an agreed framework, and plans to reconvene at a later date to review progress.
This joint meeting underscores a renewed commitment by northern leaders to tackle insecurity, promote development, and strengthen regional cooperation.
