Governors of the 19 northern States and traditional rulers in the region rose from a meeting in Kaduna State on Saturday, advocating for the establishment of State Police as part of strategies towards tackling insecurity in Nigeria.
This comes amid resurgence of Boko Haram attack in parts of the Northern region, coupled with the mayhem being caused by bandits and killer herdsmen.
In a communique issued after the joint meeting, signed by the Chairman of Northern Governor's Forum, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who is the governor of Gombe State, they, however, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to solving security challenges bedeviling the nation.
The forum emphasised the need to be nonpartisan and collaborate with government to effectively address the numerous developmental challenges confronting the northern region and the nation at large.
They stressed the need to support security agencies in the face of growing insecurity so as to tame the tide, as well as supporting local initiatives towards solving insecurity.
The governor said they 'must work together to address the security challenges facing our region. It’s imperative that we enhance our security measures to protect our citizens and ensure their safety."
Part of the communique read: "The Forum also resolved to urgently set up inter-state platforms to coordinate surveillance on our joint borders.
"The Forum reiterated its support for the creation of State Police and called on the National Assembly to expedite action on the enactment of the legal framework for its take off."
On infrastructure, Governor Yahaya expressed concern over the state of infrastructure in Northern Nigeria, citing neglected projects such as the Port Harcourt-Maiduguri rail line and the Kano-Maiduguri expressway.
He advocated for innovative financing options like public-private partnerships and infrastructure bonds to bridge the infrastructure gap.
The governor also highlighted the importance of human capital development, particularly in addressing the Almajiri phenomenon and providing job opportunities for youth.
He emphasised the need for quality education and vocational skills to empower the next generation.
The meeting was attended by 14 Northern governors- Governors of Zamfara, Dauda Lawal, Kaduna Governor, Senator Uba Sani, Gombe governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, Jigawa Governor, Umar Namadi, Kebbi governor, Nasir Idris, Adamawa Governor, Ahmed Fintiri, Taraba Governor, Kefas Agbu, Nasarawa Governor, Abdullahi Sule, Yobe Governor, Mai Malam Buni, Niger Governor, Mohammed Bago, Sokoto Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, Plateau Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, Katsina Governor, Dikko Radda and Kogi Governor, Ahmed Ododo.
Governors of Borno, Kwara, Kano, Benue and Bauchi were represented.
Also in attendance were Emirs and Chiefs from the region.