The Northern States Governors’ Forum, alongside the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council, convened on October 28, 2024, and released a statement advocating for the swift restoration of electricity in the northern region.
According to ELANZANEWS, recent acts of vandalism targeting transmission lines have left the northern region in darkness for several days, resulting in an extended blackout.
This outage has severely affected businesses throughout the region, with many business owners reporting substantial financial losses. Economic activities have come to a near halt in various areas, as the absence of electricity has stifled productivity.
The communique, signed by the Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum and Governor of Gombe State, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, urged the Federal Government to promptly tackle the power outage caused by the vandalism of essential transmission infrastructure.
The Forum underscored the necessity for additional transmission lines and the diversification of energy supply to enhance the region’s connectivity and energy stability. They also highlighted the current situation as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of critical infrastructure.
The forum expressed heartfelt sympathy for those affected by recent flooding and terrorist incidents, commending the Federal Government for its efforts in addressing security challenges.
Moreover, the forum recognized the essential role of traditional institutions in fostering lasting peace and security and advocated for strengthened collaboration with security agencies to combat crime. They acknowledged recent successes against criminal elements and praised Chief of Defence Staff, General C.J. Musa, for his professional and innovative approach.
Addressing youth restiveness was another focal point, with the forum calling for investments in education, skills development, and job creation. They reiterated the urgent need for the Federal Government to resolve the ongoing electricity blackout affecting many Northern States due to infrastructure vandalism.
Additionally, the forum recognized Northern Nigeria’s significant agricultural potential and resolved to enhance support for farmers by providing access to financing, modern farming techniques, and improved infrastructure. They acknowledged the President’s reform initiatives in the livestock sector and committed to ongoing engagement with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee.
The forum also addressed the repercussions of climate change on the environment, resolving to collaborate with the Federal Government and other stakeholders to develop irrigation infrastructure. They expressed their commitment to initiatives aimed at addressing the issues faced by out-of-school children and enhancing educational outcomes.
Furthermore, the forum rejected the proposed Tax Amendments within the recent Tax Reform Bill, asserting that these measures do not serve the interests of the North or other sub-nationals. They called upon the National Assembly to oppose any legislation that could adversely affect their constituents.
In summary, the Northern Governors’ Forum called for fairness and equity in the execution of national policies and programs, ensuring that no geopolitical zone is overlooked or marginalized. They appealed to the public to remain patient as both state and Federal Governments strive to implement measures that alleviate the impacts of economic hardship.
