Northeast Governors unite to tackle poverty, insecurity, boost agriculture

The region has endured over 15 years of persistent violence, resulting in more than 35,000 deaths and the displacement of over 2 million people, largel6due the insurgency

Governors of Nigeria’s Northeast region have pledged joint action to combat poverty, insecurity, and revive agriculture, following high-level talks in Damaturu, Yobe State.

At the 11th NorthEast Governors’ Forum meeting, Borno State Governor and forum chair, Babagana Umara Zulum, urged his counterparts to focus on creating opportunities and delivering essential services to citizens.

“We must confront the poverty crisis and escalating security threats—terrorism, banditry, and criminality—with a unified front,” he said.

The governors from Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe also resolved to adopt short- and medium-term measures to revitalise agriculture, including include support for farmers, irrigation development, and promotion of climate-resilient farming.

Host Governor Mai Mala Buni reaffirmed the region’s commitment to collaborative solutions.

The meeting also featured experts and agencies like the Northeast Development Commission, the National Commission for Almajiri and Out-of-School Children, and the Nigerian Institute of Leather and Science Technology (NILSET), along with traditional leaders and security officials.

Editing by Saadatu Albashir