By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has identified illegal mining as a major driver of the escalating security crisis in northern Nigeria. The forum made this known in a communiqué issued on Monday in Kaduna at the end of a joint meeting with the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council. The document was signed by the forum’s chairman, Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya.The communiqué stated that illegal mining activities have contributed significantly to the region’s insecurity, prompting the forum to recommend that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu direct the Minister of Solid Minerals to suspend all mining exploration for six months to allow for a full audit.The meeting, held at the Council Chamber of Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, brought together the governors of the 19 northern states and the chairmen of the region’s traditional councils. The forum commended both leaders and traditional rulers for their continued dedication to unity, peace, and development in the region.
The NSGF emphasized that regional cooperation and unity are critical to addressing ongoing threats. “At this pivotal moment in our history, we recognize that only through unity, peer review, and cooperation can we overcome the pressing challenges before us,” the communiqué read.The forum extended condolences to residents of Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Kano States following recent killings and abductions of schoolchildren and other citizens. It also expressed solidarity with victims of Boko Haram attacks in Borno and Yobe States.The NSGF commended President Tinubu’s efforts in securing the release of some abducted schoolchildren and addressing broader security concerns. It also praised the sacrifices of military personnel confronting insurgencies across the country.
The forum reaffirmed its support for the establishment of state police, urging National and State Assembly members from the region to fast-track legislative actions needed for its implementation.To curb illegal mining, the governors called for all mining licences to be subjected to a six-month revalidation process in consultation with state governments. This measure, they said, would help address the growing menace of artisanal and unregulated mining.
As part of broader efforts to tackle insecurity in the North, the NSGF announced plans to establish a Regional Security Trust Fund. The fund will receive a monthly contribution of ₦1 billion from each state and from local governments, with deductions to be made at source based on an agreed framework.The forum resolved to reconvene at a later date to continue deliberations on the region’s security challenges and development.
