The North-West Governors' Forum has unveiled a five-year plan to tackle security challenges, crime, and socio-economic issues in the region. The North-West Peace, Security and Development Framework (2026-2030) aims to bring together member states to address the complex problems facing the region. The framework was adopted at a meeting in Abuja, where the governors emphasized the need for sustained collaboration among member states.
Governor Dikko Radda, chairman of the forum, highlighted the framework's importance in providing a shared vision and clear priorities for the region. He urged the governors to act with determination to translate the framework into tangible results for the people. The governors commended the United Nations Development Programme for its technical and financial support in advancing peace, security, and development in the region.
The forum approved measures to strengthen the North-West Governors' Forum Secretariat and improve coordination among member states. It also directed the secretariat to guide member states on regional priority areas and to engage State Statisticians General to strengthen regional data systems.
The governors expressed concern over the challenges affecting the effectiveness of the North-West Development Commission and resolved to address outstanding issues urgently. They welcomed the federal government's "Energise Commercialisation Now" initiative and directed the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology to collaborate closely with the North-west Governors' Forum Secretariat.
The North-West Governors' Forum's commitment to regional collaboration and improved governance is a welcome step towards addressing the persistent security challenges in the region. The adoption of the North-West Peace, Security and Development Framework is a clear indication that the governors are willing to work together to tackle the complex problems facing the region. However, the success of this framework will depend on the effective implementation of its measures and the governors' ability to work together to translate it into tangible results for the people. The governors' decision to strengthen the North-West Governors' Forum Secretariat and improve coordination among member states is a positive step towards addressing the region's socio-economic challenges. However, the challenges facing the North-West Development Commission must be addressed urgently to prevent further escalation. The federal government's "Energise Commercialisation Now" initiative is a timely intervention that could help accelerate innovation, industrialisation, and export development in the region.
