North-West Governors Adopt 5-Year Security Blueprint
The North-West Governors’ Forum has launched a five-year strategic framework (2026–2030) to tackle insecurity, organised crime, and socio-economic challenges across the seven states in the region. The North-West Peace, Security and Development Framework was formally adopted at the forum’s third meeting in Abuja, chaired by Katsina State Governor Dikko Radda. Governor Radda stressed the need for sustained collaboration among member states, calling the framework a response to the region’s complex, interlinked challenges. “The framework provides our shared vision and clear priorities. We must now act with determination to translate this into tangible results for our people,” he said. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) was commended for its technical and financial support as a key partner. The forum approved measures to strengthen its secretariat, requiring the Director-General to submit work plans for approval and guiding states on regional priorities to align planning and budgeting. On humanitarian issues, Katsina and Zamfara states were noted for domesticating the National IDP Policy, with other states urged to follow. Strengthening regional data systems via State Statisticians General was directed to improve evidence-based planning. Concerns were raised about the North-West Development Commission’s effectiveness, with governors warning of escalation to the President if issues persist. The federal “Energise Commercialisation Now” initiative, presented by the Minister of Innovation, was welcomed, with a directive for close collaboration with the secretariat to ensure all states participate effectively. The blueprint comes amid persistent banditry, kidnapping, and displacement in parts of the North-West. Will this regional framework, with its focus on coordination and data-driven planning, actually reduce insecurity and spur development in your state, or will state-level politics and fragmented efforts undermine its potential?