The North-East Governors’ Forum has restated its collective commitment to tackling the region’s most pressing challenges, including security, economic integration, infrastructure recovery, and climate change adaptation.
The forum, comprising the governors of Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba, and Yobe states, issued a communiqué after its meeting on Saturday in Jalingo, Taraba State, outlining key concerns and concrete steps to accelerate regional development.
While commending significant gains in the fight against insurgency over recent years, the governors acknowledged the lingering humanitarian and infrastructural crises that continue to affect millions of residents.
“Despite progress in counterinsurgency efforts, the region is still grappling with displaced populations, destroyed infrastructure, and the slow pace of recovery,” the communiqué stated.
Climate Change and Flood Risks Take Center Stage
A major highlight of the meeting was the escalating threat of climate change, particularly the risk of widespread flooding across the North-East. Citing reports from credible agencies forecasting severe weather patterns, the governors called for urgent, proactive measures to mitigate potential disasters.
They urged the Federal Government and the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to:
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Prioritise the reconstruction of critical infrastructure, especially bridges damaged by past floods.
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Invest in community sensitisation and early-warning systems for populations living along floodplains.
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Strengthen collaboration between federal, state, and local authorities on climate resilience initiatives.
Call for Greater Federal Support
The forum stressed that the region’s recovery hinges on sustained investment and policy coordination between stakeholders at all levels of government. They reaffirmed their commitment to working together as a bloc to drive economic integration and rebuild livelihoods for millions affected by conflict and environmental challenges.
