The Northeast Governors Forum has emphasized that solving the security challenges in the region requires a comprehensive, multi-dimensional approach beyond military action.
Speaking at the 12th rotational meeting of the Forum in Taraba on Saturday, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum outlined education, healthcare, security reinforcement, and infrastructural development as crucial areas that must be prioritized.
While commending President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its ongoing efforts to tackle insurgency, the governors maintained that addressing the root causes of insecurity—such as youth restiveness, unemployment, lack of technical and vocational education, poor road networks, and inadequate poverty reduction programs—remains vital.
The Forum also called for stronger collaboration with the Federal Government to provide an enabling environment for both local and foreign investors, while encouraging the growth of small and medium-scale enterprises across the Northeast.
“We must reiterate our call for non-kinetic solutions to these challenges. Tackling youth unemployment through technical and vocational training, revitalizing agriculture, improving road networks, and enhancing poverty alleviation programs are key steps,” Zulum stated.
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, also urged the Forum to pressure the NorthEast Development Commission (NEDC) into expediting the reconstruction of the Namai bridge, which collapsed in August 2024, resulting in tragic loss of lives.
The governors reaffirmed their commitment to reviving the region’s economy, reducing humanitarian setbacks, and fostering resilience through deliberate investments in infrastructure, agriculture, and poverty alleviation.
