The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has decried that insecurity is disrupting agricultural activities in the region.
The forum, however, reaffirmed its commitment to addressing the rising insecurity in Northern Nigeria.
The Chairman of the forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, made the declaration yesterday while receiving a comprehensive report from the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) on the security situation in the region.
Governor Yahaya emphasised that the 19 Northern governors were united in their resolve to work with key stakeholders to effectively tackle the security challenges.
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He highlighted the severe impact of insecurity on the livelihoods of millions of Nigerians, particularly in the agricultural sector, stressing that the disruption had led to increased food prices affecting not only the Northern region, but the entire country.
He said, “The insecurity in Northern Nigeria is a major concern for us as governors. This region, which has the largest portion of the country’s population and is rich in mineral resources and fertile land, plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s food security.
“Unfortunately, the ongoing insecurity is disrupting agricultural activities, contributing to rising food costs, and exacerbating the economic challenges faced nationwide.”
Governor Yahaya announced plans to convene a broad meeting involving all relevant stakeholders, including past and present leaders, traditional rulers, security chiefs and civil society organisations with the aim to discuss and implement strategies to restore stability and prosperity to the region.
Earlier, Bashir Yusuf Ibrahim, Chairman of the Committee of Experts on Security for the CNG, explained that the report was the result of a detailed process analysing the evolving nature of insecurity in Northern Nigeria and offering actionable solutions.
He stressed the importance of an “All Society Approach” proposed by the CNG which aimed to create synergy among stakeholders across Northern Nigeria to effectively address insecurity.
Ibrahim noted that no state was immune to criminal activities if neighbouring states were affected.
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