Governors of the North-West states have launched a regional framework aimed at strengthening peace, improving security and promoting socio-economic development across the zone.
The framework, known as the North-West Peace, Security and Development Framework (2026–2030), was adopted during the third meeting of the North-West Governors’ Forum held in Abuja.
Chairman of the Forum and Governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, emphasised the need for greater unity and collective responsibility among the states to effectively address the region’s security and development challenges.
Radda said closer collaboration among the states was essential to tackling persistent threats such as insecurity, organised crime and other socio-economic difficulties affecting the region.
In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Katsina State Governor, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Radda described the framework as a roadmap that outlines shared priorities for the region.
“The framework reflects our collective vision and clearly defines our priorities. It is now important that we work with commitment to ensure that its objectives translate into real benefits for our people,” he said.
He added that the document was developed in response to the interconnected challenges facing the North-West, stressing the importance of coordinated strategies and joint efforts among the states.
During the meeting, the forum also deliberated on the structure and operational direction of its secretariat as part of efforts to strengthen the institution. The governors approved a governance arrangement requiring the Director-General of the Secretariat to first present proposed work plans to the chairman of the forum before they are forwarded to members for ratification.
The Secretariat was equally tasked with providing guidance to member states on key regional priorities to ensure that planning and budgetary processes align with agreed objectives.
The governors further acknowledged progress recorded by Katsina and Zamfara states in adopting the National Policy on Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and developing state-level action plans.
They encouraged other states in the region to follow suit in order to improve support systems for displaced populations.
The Forum also directed the Secretariat to engage State Statisticians-General across the North-West to strengthen regional data management systems and enhance evidence-based policy planning and decision-making.
