
The Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council (NTRC) have announced the creation of a landmark Regional Security Trust Fund aimed at strengthening the fight against insecurity across the 19 northern states.
The decision was part of a far-reaching communiqué issued after a joint meeting held on Monday, 1st December 2025, at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House, Kaduna. The meeting was attended by all 19 Northern Governors and Chairmen of the 19 Northern States Traditional Councils.
Unity and Security Take Center Stage
In the communiqué signed by Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Chairman of the NSGF, the Forum commended the commitment of governors and traditional rulers to the region’s unity and stability. It stressed that only through collective action can the North overcome its current security challenges.
Condolences to States Hit by Attacks
The Forum extended condolences to the governments and people of Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Sokoto, Jigawa, and Kano States, following recent killings and abductions, particularly involving schoolchildren. It also sympathized with victims of Boko Haram attacks in Borno and Yobe States.
Support for Federal Government’s Security Efforts
Commending President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for efforts leading to the release of abducted children and other security interventions, the Forum reaffirmed its support for intensified military operations against insurgents. It hailed the sacrifices of service personnel fighting on various fronts nationwide.
Push for State Police
Reiterating its full commitment to the establishment of State Police, the Forum urged federal and state lawmakers from the region to expedite constitutional processes required to bring it to reality.
Crackdown on Illegal Mining
Highlighting the rising role of illegal mining in fueling insecurity, the Forum resolved to recommend a six-month suspension of mining activities nationwide. It urged President Tinubu to direct the Minister of Solid Minerals to conduct a comprehensive audit and revalidate all licenses in consultation with state governors.
N1bn Monthly Regional Security Trust Fund
In a major move to boost regional security coordination, the Forum approved the creation of a Regional Security Trust Fund, to be financed through a monthly deduction of N1 billion from each state and local governments, under an agreed funding framework. The Fund is expected to support security operations, intelligence gathering, and joint regional initiatives.
The Forum agreed to reconvene at a later date to assess progress on all resolutions.