By Editor
Governors from the 19 Northern states and members of the Northern Traditional Rulers Council on Wednesday convened in Kaduna for a high-level meeting aimed at addressing the region's growing security and development challenges, with the proposed creation of state police emerging as a key issue on the agenda.
The meeting, organised under the Northern States Governors' Forum (NSGF), is expected to examine strategies for tackling insecurity, boosting agriculture, addressing underdevelopment and advancing other critical issues affecting Northern Nigeria.
Welcoming participants, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani described the ongoing constitutional process on state police as a significant milestone in Nigeria's democratic journey, stressing that the current security realities demand a policing structure that is more responsive to local communities.
According to him, governors across political parties have consistently advocated for a decentralised policing system capable of confronting the rising threats posed by banditry, terrorism and kidnapping.
Sani argued that establishing state police would strengthen security operations by increasing personnel on the ground and improving response to local security challenges.
The governor also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as the Federal Government's commitment to the development of Northern Nigeria, citing interventions in transportation, agriculture, healthcare, education, infrastructure, energy and national security.
He praised the leadership of the Northern States Governors' Forum under Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, saying the forum has continued to promote regional cooperation beyond political affiliations.
While acknowledging that Nigeria still faces significant challenges, Sani maintained that measurable progress has been made through collaboration between the Federal Government and state governments.
He also applauded the National Assembly for advancing legislative efforts on the proposed state police framework, expressing optimism that the constitutional amendment process would soon be concluded.
According to the governor, the creation of state police has the potential to significantly strengthen Nigeria's security architecture by providing additional manpower to combat criminal groups operating across the region.
Sani further urged Northern leaders to remain united in pursuing practical solutions that will improve security, expand economic opportunities, modernise agriculture, strengthen healthcare and education, and promote inclusive development across the region.