The details of a crucial meeting held by the Nigerian Governors’ Forum have emerged.
The meeting, which took place in Abuja on Wednesday night, brought together all 36 state governors under the leadership of Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
During the meeting, the governors agreed that the security situation across several states has become more troubling, especially in Benue, Plateau, and Katsina, where recent attacks by suspected herders and gunmen have left dozens dead.
To tackle the problem, they decided to set up a joint committee to work closely with security agencies in coming up with a better strategy for preventing such attacks.
The plan includes the use of modern technology to detect threats early and respond faster.
Recent incidents such as the killing of 15 people in Benue State’s Katsina-Ala area and the death of over 50 residents in Zike, Plateau State, have sparked new concerns about public safety.
The governors said that more security personnel should be recruited to manage the crisis and restore peace in affected areas.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, also presented a plan aimed at boosting the country’s defence approach by introducing new technology.
The plan includes improved surveillance systems and better ways of managing emergencies across the country.
The governors showed support for this approach, agreeing that combining technology with manpower could make a difference.
Beyond security, the forum turned its attention to housing and land use.
The Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, introduced a proposal that encourages cooperation between the federal and state governments.
The plan aims to improve land ownership, boost local revenue, and encourage investments by formalizing how land is used and registered.
The governors also discussed a possible partnership with Powercom Smart Grid Nigeria Limited.
The company wants to take over some electricity distribution operations and install smart grid systems to improve power supply.
The move would allow for private sector investment in electricity, with hopes of improving services for Nigerians.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, also spoke during the meeting.
He said that the creation of state police would help deal with security issues more effectively, as governors currently have limited power under the Constitution.
Sani shared his experience in reducing violence in Kaduna, suggesting that dialogue and local involvement are just as important as armed force in keeping the peace.
The meeting ended with a shared view that urgent and united action is needed.
The governors agreed that they must continue working together, not just pointing fingers, if they want to overcome the growing insecurity and make progress in other areas like housing and power supply.
