The Northeast Governors’ Forum (NEGF) has called on the federal government to prioritise the completion of abandoned critical projects in the region, warning that the delay could exacerbate insecurity and underdevelopment.
The appeal was made during the Forum’s 11th meeting held on Thursday in Damaturu, Yobe state.
In a communiqué signed by the Forum’s Chairman and Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, and read by Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, the governors highlighted infrastructure neglect as a key driver of instability.
Governor Kefas delivered the resolutions at the WAWA Hall of the Yobe State Government House, flanked by the governors of Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, and Yobe states, following a closed-door session.
The Forum commended the gederal government’s security efforts but urged a reassessment of counterinsurgency strategies by the military and community leaders.
It linked rising insurgent activities to systemic issues like unemployment and poor infrastructure, advocating for vocational education and poverty reduction.
The NEGF identified abandoned road projects as a major obstacle to development and security, urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene urgently.
“A functional road network is vital for economic growth and regional integration,” the communiqué stated.
The communiqué read part,”Plans were unveiled to attract investments in agriculture, climate resilience, and industrialization to create jobs and combat poverty.
“While acknowledging the Northeast Development Commission’s (NEDC) efforts, the Forum demanded faster execution of projects in roads, education, and healthcare.
“Support for expanding the Nigerian Law School in the region and reintegrating out-of-school children through vocational training was announced.”
The Forum scheduled its next meeting for 25th–27th July to be hold in Taraba state and pledged continued collaboration with federal agencies to address the region’s challenges.
