I commend the Northern Governors’ Forum and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council for their collective resolve at this crucial moment in our region’s history. Their recent communiqué reflects seriousness and unity in confronting insecurity, which has taken a painful toll on families and communities across Northern Nigeria.
I support the resolutions outlined, especially issues concerning state Police and Security trust fund which carry the greatest potential impact, but also the greatest risk if not handled with absolute transparency and strategic clarity.
The push for state police
The renewed commitment to establishing state police is a necessary and overdue step. A locally grounded security structure is essential for rapid response and genuine community intelligence. I strongly urge both the National Assembly and the state Houses of Assembly to accelerate the passage of the enabling bill.
I must caution that once State Police becomes a reality, it must remain professional, non-partisan, and free from political weaponization. The North cannot afford another institution captured for political battles instead of protecting lives. If implemented with sincerity and fairness, this reform could mark a historic breakthrough in restoring peace.
The Security Trust Fund: A bold step, but lacking direction
While the commitment by all 19 Northern states to contribute N1 billion monthly each to a Regional Security Trust Fund is bold, my greatest concern lies here.
There is no clearly outlined plan, no defined list of projects, no identified operational gaps to be funded, and no framework showing how this massive monthly allocation N19 billion will directly translate into improved security. Without a strategic blueprint, such a large fund risks becoming another unmonitored pool of resources, easily mismanaged or diverted away from its purpose.
Given the region’s overwhelming challenges, severe unemployment,
youth restlessness, rising poverty, untapped talents, and shrinking economic opportunities, I strongly believe the idea needs to be revisited and refined.
Security is not only about guns and operations; it is also about investing in people, reducing desperation, and creating pathways for young Northerners to thrive. A security fund without a people-focused development component is only tackling symptoms, not causes.
Before deductions begin, the governors must provide:
- A clear, public breakdown of priorities
- A catalogue of specific security projects
- A detailed implementation roadmap, and
- A transparent accountability mechanism open to independent oversight.
Without these, the fund risks becoming another burden on the region rather than a solution.
Conclusion
Northern Nigeria stands at a crossroads. The decisions made today will determine whether the region rises from insecurity or sinks deeper into hardship.
I wholeheartedly support the direction of the resolutions, but urge the Governors to ensure clarity, accountability, and alignment with the real needs of our people.
Security must not be treated in isolation from development. Our youths need opportunities as much as our communities need protection.
This moment must not be wasted.
Tijjani Sarki is a good goovernance advocate and public policy analyst. He can be reached on viatijjanisarki.blogspot.com
