The North-West Governors’ Forum, led by Katsina State Governor Dikko Umaru Raɗɗa, has formally launched the North-West Peace, Security and Development Framework (2026–2030) as a strategic plan for coordinated regional action.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, the framework was unveiled at the 3rd Meeting of the Forum held in Abuja.
Governor Raɗɗa reaffirmed that sustained collaboration and shared responsibility among states are essential to addressing insecurity and development challenges across the region.
He noted that the framework responds to complex and interrelated issues, including insecurity, organised crime, and socio-economic vulnerabilities, which require integrated and collective responses. “The framework provides our shared vision and clear priorities. We must now act with determination to translate this into tangible results for our people”, he said.
Chairman of the Forum commended the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) for its technical and financial support, describing it as a key partner in advancing peace, security, and development in the region.
The Forum also reviewed matters concerning the strengthening of its Secretariat and approved a governance structure requiring the Director-General to submit work plans to the chairman before presentation to members for ratification. It further mandated the Secretariat to guide member states on regional priorities to ensure alignment in planning and budgeting processes.
On humanitarian coordination, the forum acknowledged progress made by Katsina and Zamfara States in domesticating the National Internally-Displaced Persons (IDPs) Policy and State Action Plan, urging other states to adopt similar measures.
The governors also directed the Secretariat to work with State Statisticians-General to enhance regional data systems for evidence-based planning and decision-making.
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology, Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, presented the “Energise Commercialisation Now” initiative, a federal programme aimed at promoting innovation, industrialisation, and export development across states.
The Forum welcomed the initiative, and directed the minister to collaborate closely with the Secretariat to ensure full participation of member states. The meeting reaffirmed the governors’ commitment to stronger regional cooperation, improved governance, and accelerated socio-economic development across the North-West.
Participants included governors of the seven North-West states, development partners, and representatives of key regional and federal institutions.
