The North-West Governors’ Forum has demanded a fairer revenue sharing formula and the creation of state police to address growing insecurity and economic challenges in the region.
Kaduna State Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, who represented Katsina Governor and Forum Chair, Dikko Radda, speaking at a constitutional review session in Abuja on Monday, said the current system does not reflect the region’s needs.
“Our states host millions of displaced people due to banditry and conflict. We need a formula that considers our population and challenges,” she said.
She further called for greater control by states over their resources and a new security architecture that allows for state policing.
“This is a chance to push for reforms that meet today’s realities,” Balarabe said.
The meeting brought together officials, legal experts, and civil society groups from the region to draft a joint position titled The North-West Common Position on Constitutional Reform.
Maryam Musa, Director-General of the Forum, noted that wide consultations have taken place across the seven North-West states.
“We are here to speak with one voice. Our governors have given us the task to come up with practical and united proposals,” she said.