Governors from Nigeria’s North-West region have pledged to collaborate in addressing insecurity, enhancing agricultural productivity, and driving economic development across the zone.
The resolution was announced on Monday following a strategic meeting with a United Nations delegation led by Amina Mohammed, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, at the Katsina Government House in Asokoro, Abuja.
Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, speaking to journalists after the meeting, emphasized the collective commitment of the governors to confront the region’s pressing challenges, particularly in security, agriculture, and the economy.
“Our focus is clear—economic development, agricultural revitalization, and ensuring security in the North-West,” Radda said. “The UN delegation’s presence underscores the global importance of these issues, and we’re determined to work together for sustainable solutions.”
The meeting also featured development partners, including representatives from the African Development Bank (AfDB), who presented on the Nigeria Agricultural Growth Scheme (NAGS 2.0). This program, targeting North-Western states, aims to strengthen agricultural value chains and promote food security.
Discussions extended to the Special Agro-Industrial Processing Zones (SAPZ) program, with the second phase set to benefit all five North-Western states, following the first phase’s implementation in Kaduna and Kano.
Governor Radda highlighted the shared vision among the governors to address critical issues such as out-of-school children, youth unemployment, and poverty reduction, stating, “With unity and cooperation, we can achieve holistic development across the region.”
The forum also confirmed Mariam Musa as its new Director-General (DG) to coordinate activities, while each state will appoint a focal person to ensure effective synergy with development partners.
Governor Radda reaffirmed the region’s support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s initiatives aimed at fostering economic prosperity in Nigeria, expressing optimism about the positive impact of the collaborative efforts.