…Calls for Calm Amid Current Economic Hardships
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Northern States Governors Forum (NSGF) has reaffirmed its commitment to policies and programs that promote the growth and development of Nigeria, stating that it does not oppose any measures aimed at advancing the country’s progress.
The forum, however, emphasized the need for fairness and equity in the implementation of national policies to prevent any geopolitical zone from being marginalized or short-changed.
This statement was issued in a communiqué following a joint meeting between the Northern States Governors Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers Council (Emirs and Chiefs), held Monday, October 28, 2024, in Kaduna.
Chairman of the Forum and Yobe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, who presented the communiqué, said, “For the avoidance of doubt, the Northern Governors Forum is not averse to any policies or programs that ensure the growth and development of the country.”
“However, the Forum calls for equity and fairness in the implementation of all national policies to ensure that no geopolitical zone is marginalized,” he added.
Addressing the current economic hardships affecting the country, the Forum appealed to citizens to remain calm, noting that both state and federal governments are working on measures to mitigate the impact of these challenges.
The communiqué also expressed the Forum’s commitment to initiatives aimed at addressing issues such as out-of-school children and enhancing educational outcomes in the region.
The Forum expressed concern over aspects of the recent Tax Reform Bill submitted to the National Assembly, particularly the proposed shift to a derivation-based model for Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution.
“The proposal is against the interests of the North and other regions, as companies remit VAT based on the location of their headquarters and tax offices, not where goods and services are consumed. The Forum unanimously rejects the proposed tax amendments and urges members of the National Assembly to oppose any bill that jeopardizes the welfare of our people,” the communiqué stated.
The Forum also urged the Federal Government and relevant agencies to urgently address the ongoing electricity blackout in Northern states caused by vandalism of electricity infrastructure.
“This situation underscores the vulnerability of critical infrastructure and highlights the need for additional transmission lines and energy diversification to enhance regional connectivity and energy resilience,” the Forum noted.
Northern Nigeria, with its significant agricultural potential, was another focal point. The Forum resolved to support farmers by providing access to financing, modern farming techniques, and essential infrastructure such as roads and irrigation systems.
“Agriculture should not only feed our people but also serve as a catalyst for industrialization and job creation across the region, especially by reviving the textile industry and other agro-allied sectors,” the communiqué added.
The Forum commended President Muhammadu Buhari for initiatives in the livestock sub-sector and expressed commitment to supporting the Federal Government’s livestock development policies. The Forum also pledged continued collaboration with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee for greater outcomes.
On environmental concerns, the Forum acknowledged the impact of climate change, particularly recent flooding across the North. It resolved to work with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to develop irrigation infrastructure to manage excess water for agricultural use, thereby enhancing rural livelihoods and food security.
The communiqué also emphasized the role of traditional institutions in maintaining peace and security, recognizing their contribution to bridging the gap between government and the people.
“The Forum advocates for greater roles for traditional institutions to cooperate with security agencies in combating kidnapping, banditry, cattle rustling, communal conflicts, and other criminal activities,” it stated.
Following the “End Bad Governance” protests in August, the Forum resolved to increase investments in education, skill development, and job creation to reduce youth vulnerability to crime and social vices by channeling their energy toward productive activities.
