Chuks Okocha in Abuja
The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) has echoed the growing consensus among stakeholders that addressing the complex security challenges plaguing the northern region and Nigeria at large requires a united front and coordinated action among security forces and government agencies at all levels.
Chairman of the forum and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, who spoke on behalf of the governors affirmed the readiness of northern governors to complement the kinetic approach advocated by the National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, with non-kinetic strategies.
Governor Yahaya made this assertion during a high-level security meeting involving the 19 Northern Governors, Ministers of Defence, Police Affairs, and Interior, as well as the nation’s security chiefs.
The meeting, convened by the National Security Adviser, Ribadu in Abuja with Service Chiefs, was aimed at strategising on combating the escalating security threats in the northern region.
The Director-General (Press Affairs), Government House, Gombe, Ismaila Uba Misilli, in a statement made available to THISDAY said: “Expressing deep concern over the prevailing security situation, Governor Inuwa reiterated the commitment of northern governors to work closely with security agencies in seeking enduring solutions.
“He stressed the need for exploring alternative approaches to achieve better results in combating security challenges.
“In view of the security situation across the North, we are increasingly concerned and recognise the necessity to deliberate, review, and consider alternative options to improve outcomes,” Governor Inuwa stated.
The NSGF Chairman emphasised the importance of combining both approaches to enhance the overall security situation in the country.
“We are open to the kinetic approach proposed by the NSA. Our deliberation with key stakeholders in the security sector has been productive. While acknowledging their commendable efforts, we recognise the need to adopt a different approach, particularly by integrating non-kinetic methods,” Inuwa added.
He emphasised the determination of northern governors to continue working closely with relevant stakeholders to explore innovative strategies and implement effective measures that will help restore peace and stability in the region and across Nigeria.
