N/West govs adopt regional peace, security framework

Governors of the North-West states have adopted a regional peace, security and development framework aimed at addressing insecurity and socio-economic challenges across the zone. The decision was reached at the 3rd meeting of the North-West Governors’ Forum held in Abuja, where members endorsed the North-West Peace, Security and Development Framework (2026–2030) as a guide for […]

Governors of the North-West states have adopted a regional peace, security and development framework aimed at addressing insecurity and socio-economic challenges across the zone.

The decision was reached at the 3rd meeting of the North-West Governors’ Forum held in Abuja, where members endorsed the North-West Peace, Security and Development Framework (2026–2030) as a guide for coordinated action.

Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Katsina State, Dikko Umaru Radda, said sustained collaboration among states was essential to tackling shared challenges in the region.

“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.

According to him, the framework is designed to respond to interconnected issues such as insecurity, organised crime and socio-economic vulnerabilities through joint efforts by member states.

The Forum also reviewed the operations of its Secretariat and approved measures to strengthen its coordination role. Under the new arrangement, the Director-General is to submit work plans to the chairman for approval before presentation to members for ratification. The Secretariat was further tasked with guiding states on regional priorities to improve planning and budgeting alignment.

On humanitarian matters, the governors noted progress made by some states in implementing the National Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Policy and State Action Plan, and encouraged others to adopt similar measures. They also called for improved data systems to support evidence-based decision-making across the region.

The Forum received an update on the activities of the North-West Development Commission and stressed the need to address operational issues affecting its performance. Members resolved that outstanding concerns should be handled promptly.

In addition, the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, presented a Federal Government initiative titled “Energise Commercialisation Now,” which aims to promote innovation, industrialisation and export development. The governors welcomed the initiative and called for collaboration with the Forum’s Secretariat to ensure participation by all member states.

The meeting was attended by governors of the seven North-West states, alongside development partners and representatives of federal and regional institutions.