Governors of Nigeria’s Northeast region have called on President Bola Tinubu to confront the root causes of insecurity, stressing that military action alone cannot restore lasting peace.
The appeal was made on Saturday during the 12th meeting of the Northeast Governors’ Forum, held in Jalingo, Taraba State.
The meeting was chaired by Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum.
While acknowledging the Federal Government’s ongoing counter-insurgency efforts, the Forum argued that insecurity in the region is sustained by deep-seated socio-economic problems, including mass unemployment, poor road infrastructure, inadequate healthcare, and limited access to education.
Zulum said the region requires a “non-kinetic” approach that prioritises technical and vocational training for youths, revitalisation of agriculture, and improved poverty alleviation measures. “We must go beyond military solutions and address the conditions that create restiveness,” he declared.
The governors also urged Abuja to work with states in attracting both local and foreign investors, expanding small and medium enterprises, and ensuring the provision of basic amenities that would encourage development.
On his part, Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, called for urgent reconstruction of the Namai Bridge, which collapsed in August 2024. He called on the NorthEast Development Commission to fast-track repairs as part of its mandate.
Reaffirming their collective stance, the Forum noted that the Northeast continues to grapple with humanitarian crises and developmental setbacks but pledged to sustain joint efforts aimed at rebuilding the region.
