By Queen Madaki | The Bureau News
Kaduna, Nigeria — The 19 Northern Governors and the Northern Traditional Rulers’ Council have jointly approved the creation of a Regional Security Trust Fund with each state contributing N1 billion monthly. The historic decision was taken on Monday, December 1, 2025, during a meeting held at the Sir Kashim Ibrahim House in Kaduna.
The Bureau News reports that the meeting brought together all Northern governors alongside the chairmen of the 19 traditional councils to address the region’s worsening insecurity, illegal mining activities, and the need for coordinated security funding.
Forum Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Unity
The leaders reaffirmed their dedication to unity and stability, stressing that collaboration remains the most effective path toward restoring peace across the North.
“Only through unity, peer review and cooperation can we overcome the pressing challenges before us,” the communiqué stated.
Condolences to States Hit by Killings and Abductions
The Forum extended heartfelt condolences to the governments and citizens of Kebbi, Kwara, Kogi, Niger, Sokoto, Jigawa and Kano following multiple killings and abductions, including the kidnapping of schoolchildren. Victims of Boko Haram attacks in Borno and Yobe were also acknowledged.
For related regional updates, visit the Security Section on The Bureau News.
Support for President Tinubu’s Military Actions
The governors commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for swift responses to recent abductions and for ongoing military operations against insurgent groups nationwide. They pledged renewed support for federal efforts aimed at weakening criminal networks.
Global security coverage available via Reuters Africa.
Strong Backing for Establishment of State Police
The Forum reiterated its full endorsement of State Police, urging lawmakers from the North to accelerate the constitutional amendments necessary for its operationalization.
Recommendation for a Six-Month Mining Suspension
Highlighting illegal mining as a major security threat, the Forum resolved to recommend that the Minister of Solid Minerals immediately suspend all mining activities for six months. This would allow for a comprehensive sector audit and revalidation of mining licences with all state governments.
Additional extractive sector insights can be found on NEITI.
N1bn Monthly Regional Security Trust Fund Approved
The key resolution was the establishment of the Regional Security Trust Fund, financed by monthly N1bn contributions from each state and local government, deducted at source under a unified regional framework.
The initiative is designed to strengthen regional security architecture, improve response capacity, and support coordinated operations against banditry, insurgency, and cross-border criminal activities.
Forum to Reconvene
The Forum agreed to reconvene at a future date to evaluate progress and implement additional strategies.
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