…urge FG to suspend mining in region for six months to tackle banditry
As part of their efforts to tackle rising insecurity in their region, Governors of the 19 Northern states have announced plans to set up a multibillion-naira Regional Security Trust Fund.
The Northern Governors’ Forum stated this in a communique issued after a joint security meeting of the Governors and the Traditional Rulers Council held in Kaduna. The meeting discussed issues of common concern affecting the region in particular and Nigeria in general.
The communique, signed by the NGD Chairman and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, stated that each of the 19 Northern states, in collaboration with local governments, is expected to contribute N1 billion monthly to the Security Trust Fund.
Funding for the Security Trust Fund, it stated, will be deducted at source under a framework to be agreed upon.
The NGF also recommended that President Bola Tinubu direct the Minister of Solid Minerals to suspend mining exploration for a period of six months to allow for a proper audit, considering how illegal mining has negatively contributed to security challenges in the Northern region.
The communique stated: “All mining licences should be subjected to revalidation for six months in consultation with various state governors to curb the activities of illegal miners.”
The NGF further reaffirmed its unwavering support and commitment to the establishment of State Police, while encouraging National and State Assembly Members in the region to expedite action on its actualisation.
The Northern Governors also extended their deepest condolences and solidarity to the governments and people of Niger, Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Kano States following the recent killings and abductions of schoolchildren and other innocent citizens, as well as to the victims of Boko Haram attacks in Borno and Yobe states.
They commended the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, and the security agencies for working tirelessly to ensure the release of some kidnapped victims and the continued fight against insecurity across the country.
They reaffirmed their resolve to provide renewed support to halt the wave of insecurity in the country.
According to the Northern Governors, “We also appreciated the region’s traditional institutions for their steadfast commitment to the unity, security, stability, and development of the region. At the moment, unity, peer review, and cooperation are highly needed to collectively overcome the pressing challenges confronting the region.”
The NGF however assured that the Northern Governors will fulfil their constitutional responsibility by addressing the challenges bedevilling the region firmly and with clarity.
