In a significant meeting held in Kaduna, the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), led by Chairman Governor Muhammadu Yahaya of Gombe State, addressed the pressing issue of youth restiveness in the region, following the impactful #End Bad Governance protests in August. The governors emphasized the need for urgent action to tackle the root causes of youth dissatisfaction, which they attributed to illiteracy, poverty, and a lack of economic opportunities.
Call for Action
Governor Yahaya underscored the urgency of listening to the voices of young people, stating, “Our young people are calling out for change, and it is our responsibility to listen and act. We must scale up efforts to tackle the root causes of youth restiveness by investing in education, skills development, and job creation.” He stressed the importance of creating pathways for the youth to engage in productive activities, thereby reducing their vulnerability to crime and social vices.
The meeting also gathered political leaders, traditional rulers—including the Sultan of Sokoto—and key stakeholders, such as the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa. The discussions revolved around addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the Northern region.
Addressing Economic Inequality
Governor Yahaya pointed out the stark economic hardships prevalent in Nigeria, particularly in the North, stating, “The economic hardship faced by many Nigerians today is undeniable, and considering the North-South disparity in economic inequality, it is even more pronounced in northern Nigeria.” He called for urgent interventions, including targeted social welfare programs, support for small and medium enterprises, and policies aimed at attracting investment.
Rejection of the Tax Reform Bill
In a communiqué issued after the meeting, the NSGF unanimously rejected the proposed Tax Reform Bill sent to the National Assembly. The governors acknowledged recent progress in combating criminal activities, particularly the elimination of bandit and terrorist leaders, and commended the Federal Government and security agencies for their efforts in ensuring community safety. However, they recognized the need for continued efforts to address the remaining challenges in the Northern region.
Focus on Electricity and Agricultural Potential
The governors expressed concern over ongoing electricity blackouts affecting many Northern states, calling for urgent action from the Federal Government and relevant agencies to address the vandalism of electricity transmission infrastructure. They highlighted the need to build national transmission lines and diversify energy supplies to improve energy resilience in the region.
Recognizing the immense agricultural potential of Northern Nigeria, the governors resolved to support farmers by providing access to financing, modern farming techniques, and necessary infrastructure. They stressed that agriculture should be viewed not only as a means to feed the population but also as a catalyst for industrialization and job creation. The revitalization of the textile value chain and development of agro-allied industries were identified as crucial steps for economic growth.
Commitment to Climate Change Adaptation
The forum also addressed the impact of climate change, particularly recent flood incidents in the North. They resolved to collaborate with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to build irrigation infrastructure, such as canals and waterways, to enhance rural livelihoods and safeguard food security.
Conclusion
The meeting of the Northern States Governors’ Forum reflects a proactive approach to addressing the urgent needs of the youth and economic challenges in the Northern region of Nigeria. By prioritizing education, job creation, and infrastructure development, the governors aim to foster a more equitable and prosperous future for their constituents.