By Mubarak Aliyu kobi
The North East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) has pledged stronger cooperation to tackle key challenges in the subregion during its 12th meeting in Jalingo, Taraba State.
Reading the Communique, Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, noted progress in curbing insurgency but stressed that humanitarian and infrastructural setbacks remain pressing.
With credible forecasts warning of severe floods, the governors called for proactive measures, including sensitization campaigns in flood-prone communities.
They also urged the Federal Government and the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) to support reconstruction of damaged infrastructure, especially bridges critical to the region’s connectivity and economic life.
Rising agricultural costs were another concern, with the governors warning of a looming food crisis if not addressed.
They called for increased subsidies for farmers and emphasized preparations for dry season farming to stabilize food production across the subregion.
To boost economic integration, the forum announced that the North East Trade Fair will be hosted in Maiduguri, Borno State, in December 2025.
The governors also recommitted to addressing energy poverty through solar power initiatives and directed their Power and Energy Committee to produce a subregional master plan.
The next NEGF meeting is scheduled for December 12–14, 2025, in Maiduguri.
