The Northwest Governors’ Forum (NWGF), chaired by Katsina State Governor Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has taken significant steps forward in realising the region’s development and cooperation.
This was made known in a communique issued and signed by Governor Radda, the forum chairman, after Monday’s meeting at the Katsina State Governor’s Lodge in Asokoro, Abuja.
A statement issued by the chief press secretary to the Governor of Katsina State, Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, said Governor Radda announced that the forum engaged with top international partners, including the United Nations deputy secretary-general, Amina J. Mohammed.
“The discussions focused on addressing human capital challenges in the region, with governors committing to implement rapid, high-impact interventions across social protection, education, food security and climate adaptation,” the governor said in the communique.
Governor Radda continued that the Africa Development Bank (ADB) presented updates on several key agricultural initiatives, including the National Agricultural Growth Scheme 2.0 (NAGS 2.0) and Special Agro-Processing Zones (SAPZ) phase 2 implementation strategies.
Governor Radda stressed that the governors affirmed their commitment to support upcoming ADB missions in their respective states to advance these programmes.
To achieve sustainable development, the governor also announced that the forum explored renewable energy solutions, particularly solar and CNG options, through discussions with the IRS. The governors also examined opportunities within the Nigeria Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) to enhance citizen participation in education advancement programmes.
Additionally, Governor Radda convened the forum and immediately approved Ms Maryam Musa Yahaya as the pioneer director general of the Northwest Governors’ Forum.
Governor Radda explained that Ms Yahaya brings extensive experience in international development partnerships and over a decade of service at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF).
“She has been tasked with strengthening the secretariat’s structure and fostering deeper regional collaboration,” the governor added.
Governor Radda concluded by expressing confidence that these developments will significantly advance the region’s growth and development agenda.
