Governors from the North-East geopolitical zone have reaffirmed their commitment to tackling the region’s most pressing issues, including security, economic development, and climate change.
The renewed pledge came after the North-East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) held its 12th meeting on Saturday in Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State.
The forum, which includes the governors of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe States, issued a communique highlighting key concerns and outlining collective efforts to address the challenges facing the subregion.
The governors commended the progress made in combating insurgency, particularly in countering Boko Haram in the region.
While recognizing substantial security gains in recent years, they voiced deep concerns over the ongoing humanitarian crises and the significant infrastructural gaps that continue to affect displaced populations and hinder recovery efforts in the North-East.
The region, still reeling from the impacts of insurgency, faces challenges such as inadequate infrastructure and widespread displacement, making post-conflict recovery a complex and long-term process.
A major focus of the meeting was the growing threat posed by climate change, especially the risk of flooding.
Citing reports from credible agencies forecasting increased climate risks, the Governors called for urgent and proactive measures to mitigate potential flooding impacts.
They urged the federal government and the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) to prioritize the reconstruction of essential infrastructure, such as bridges, that have been damaged by floods.
The governors also stressed the need for enhanced awareness and preparedness among communities in flood-prone areas.
The rising cost of agricultural inputs was another critical issue discussed at the meeting.
The governors warned that if the trend is not addressed, it could severely affect food production in the coming year, leading to a potential food crisis.
To mitigate this risk, the forum called for increased subsidies for farmers and a renewed focus on dry season farming to ensure food security in the region.
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As part of efforts to promote regional economic cooperation, the governors announced plans to host the North-East Trade Fair in Maiduguri, Borno State, in December 2025.
Organized in collaboration with the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECCIMA), the event aims to enhance regional trade and showcase the North-East’s economic potential.
Addressing energy poverty, the governors reiterated their commitment to exploring solar power as a sustainable, cost-effective solution for the region.
They also announced plans to develop an integrated subregional power master plan, which will be led by the committee on power and energy to address the region’s energy needs.
The communique, signed by Babagana Zulum, Governor of Borno State and Chairman of the forum, emphasized the importance of continued unity and collaboration among the six states.
The governors reiterated their commitment to working together to improve the socio-economic conditions of the North-East and ensure a brighter future for its people.
