Northern governors, monarchs endorse State Police, border surveillance initiatives

The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF), in conjunction with the Chairmen of the Northern States Traditional Rulers Council, convened a high-level meeting on Saturday at the Council Chamber of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna, to deliberate on pressing regional issues, with security taking center stage.

The meeting, chaired by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State and Chairman of the NSGF, was attended by all 19 Northern State governors and traditional leaders representing each state.

In a communiqué issued after extensive deliberations, the Forum acknowledged the vital importance of nonpartisan cooperation and peer collaboration in addressing the region’s developmental and security challenges.

The Forum praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued commitment to resolving security concerns and tackling infrastructure deficits in the North. It resolved to work closely with the Nigerian Governors Forum to explore new ways of supporting federal security agencies.

Recognizing the need for region-specific solutions, the governors agreed to strengthen local security initiatives and establish interstate surveillance platforms to monitor and secure shared borders.

A major highlight of the meeting was the Forum’s renewed call for the establishment of State Police. It urged the National Assembly to expedite legislative processes necessary for its implementation.

The next meeting of the Forum is scheduled for August 30, 2025.