The Northern Governors Forum has reported that the economic hardship currently afflicting Nigerians is especially severe in the northern region, where economic inequality is more pronounced than in the south.
The forum also raised alarm over the persistent darkness enveloping the northern region, stressing the urgent need for new transmission lines and a diversified energy supply to combat the issue.
Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State, who chairs the forum, made these remarks on Monday during a meeting with traditional rulers in Kaduna.
He pointed out that the “End Bad Governance” protests in August served as a crucial wake-up call for northern leaders.
The CNG condemned the ongoing power outages in the North. Onanuga remarked that Betta Edu is out, leaving no place for her in Tinubu’s cabinet.
According to Governor Yahaya, youth restiveness poses a growing threat, fueled by illiteracy, poverty, and limited economic opportunities.
He emphasized the necessity for leaders to implement measures that alleviate suffering, including targeted social welfare programs, support for small and medium enterprises, and policies designed to attract investment to their states.
“Our young people are demanding change, and it is our duty to listen and respond. We must intensify our efforts to address the root causes of youth restiveness by investing in education, skills development, and job creation. Let us create pathways for the youth to channel their energy into productive pursuits, reducing their vulnerability to crime and social issues.
“The economic hardship many Nigerians face today is undeniable, and its impact is especially acute in northern Nigeria due to the stark North-South disparities in economic inequality. This situation demands urgent intervention,” he said.
The chairman reiterated that regional leaders must collaborate with the federal government to ensure fiscal policies reflect current realities.
“As we speak, many northern states are plunged into darkness due to the vandalism of electricity transmission infrastructure. This highlights both the vulnerability of our critical infrastructure and the urgent need to establish additional transmission lines and diversify our energy supply to better connect our region and enhance our energy resilience.
“Northern Nigeria possesses tremendous agricultural potential that, if fully realized, could substantially reduce hunger and stimulate economic growth,” he added.
The governor also expressed sympathy for the victims of terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities in the North, including those impacted by the Maiduguri flood and the tanker explosion in Jigawa State.
He affirmed that the governors of the region would continue to collaborate with the federal government and relevant agencies to deliver the necessary support and relief to those affected.
In his remarks, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State conveyed that the NGF and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council would strive to address the security and developmental challenges facing the North.
He stressed the importance of collective efforts to achieve their vision of a secure, peaceful, and prosperous North.
He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for revitalizing the campaign against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements in the North.
The establishment of a Joint Military Command and the launch of Operation Fansan Yamma reflect the federal government’s commitment to decisively address the multifaceted security challenges confronting the North.
