By Ben Adaji, Jalingo
The North East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) has warned that the subregion is sliding into a deeper humanitarian and infrastructural crisis, despite improved security from recent military gains against insurgents.
In a communiqué issued at the end of its 12th meeting in Jalingo, Taraba State, and signed by forum chairman and Borno State governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, the governors said the region is still “confronted by daunting humanitarian and infrastructural challenges” that threaten its fragile recovery.
While acknowledging “remarkable improvement in security following the massive onslaught on insurgency,” the governors decried the soaring cost of agricultural inputs, warning it could trigger severe food insecurity if not urgently addressed.
The forum expressed concern over forecasts of looming floods across the region, urging proactive measures to protect communities along floodplains. It specifically called on the Federal Government and the North East Development Commission (NEDC) to urgently repair damaged infrastructure, particularly collapsed bridges critical to inter-state connectivity.
Taraba State governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, reinforced the call, urging the NEDC to expedite work on the Namnai Bridge in Gassol Local Government, which was washed away by floods last year.
Noting the crippling cost of fertilizers and farm inputs, the forum stressed that without immediate subsidies and preparation for dry-season farming, the region could face a looming food crisis.
The governors also announced plans to host the North East Trade Fair in December 2025 at Maiduguri, in partnership with the North East Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NECCIMA).
They further recommitted to tackling energy poverty, directing their Committee on Power and Energy to draw up a subregional master plan, with solar energy identified as a low-hanging fruit.
The forum congratulated the University of Maiduguri on its 50th anniversary and pledged support for its golden jubilee celebration and relaunch of the University Endowment Fund in November 2025.
Governor Kefas, hosting his first NEGF meeting, commended the spirit of unity among the people of the North East, stressing that the region could only thrive “by standing together in both good and difficult times.”