Northern governors and traditional rulers have outlined critical steps to tackle the rising insecurity across Northern Nigeria, stressing that only collective action and decisive measures can end the escalating banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings in the region.
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The information was disclosed on Monday after an emergency joint meeting at Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna, where the 19 Northern governors and members of the Traditional Rulers’ Council convened to discuss strategies aimed at restoring peace and security.
According to the communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the leaders highlighted the urgent need to regulate illegal mining, warning that unregulated activities fuel criminal networks. They urged the federal government to take immediate steps to bring mining operations under strict supervision in consultation with state governments.
The communiqué also announced the creation of a Northern Regional Security Trust Fund, with each of the 19 northern states and their local governments contributing N1 billion monthly. The framework for the fund will be finalised in the coming weeks.
The governors and traditional rulers reiterated their full support for the establishment of state police and encouraged lawmakers to fast-track the necessary constitutional amendments. They also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for securing the release of abducted school children and praised the armed forces for their sacrifices in combating terrorism and banditry.
Condolences were extended to the governments and residents of Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Sokoto, Jigawa, Kano, Borno, and Yobe states over recent killings, abductions, and Boko Haram attacks.
The communiqué concluded that “only through unity, peer review, and cooperation” can Northern Nigeria overcome its security challenges, with leaders vowing to carry out their responsibilities “with firmness and clarity.” Another joint meeting is expected soon to review progress on the resolutions.
