Northern Governors Launch Multi-Billion Security Fund; Seek 6-Month Mining Ban

In a significant move to address the debilitating insecurity across the North, the Northern Governors Forum (NGF) has resolved to establish a multibillion-naira Regional Security Trust Fund. This decision was announced in a communique following a joint security meeting involving the 19 Northern governors and the Traditional Rulers Council, held in Kaduna.

Dependable NG reports that the communique, signed by NGF Chairman and Gombe State Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, outlines a stringent funding mechanism for the new security initiative. Each of the 19 Northern states, in collaboration with its respective local governments, is expected to contribute N1 billion monthly to the Security Trust Fund. The forum noted that this funding will be deducted at source under a framework to be collectively agreed upon.

The governors identified the issue of illegal mining as a major factor contributing negatively to security challenges in the region, often fueling banditry and violence. To address this head-on, the NGF recommended that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu direct the Minister of Solid Minerals to suspend all mining exploration activities for a period of six months to allow for a proper audit.

The forum emphasized that this suspension is necessary to curb criminal activities, stating: “All mining licences should be subjected to revalidation for six months in consultation with various state governors to curb the activities of illegal miners.”

Furthermore, the NGF reaffirmed its unwavering support and commitment to the establishment of State Police, urging National and State Assembly Members in the region to expedite the legislative action required for its actualization.

The governors also extended their deepest condolences and solidarity to the governments and people of Niger, Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Kano States following 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 and security agencies for their tireless efforts in securing the release of some kidnapped victims and the continued fight against insecurity, reaffirming their resolve to provide renewed support to halt the wave of insecurity in the country.