By Abubakar Muhammad (9NEWS NIGERIA, NORTHEAST)
Yobe State Governor, Mai Mala Buni, has charged governors of the northeastern states to device and effective synergy between them, the federal government of Nigeria and security agencies for a strategic approach to halt the resurgence of Boko-Haram terrorists activities in the region.
Buni made the call today Thursday at the 11th meeting of the North East Governors forum in Damaturu, where he played host.
“We must act fast to consolidate the gains achieved in peace, security and the socio-economic developments recorded in the last few years.
“My dear compatriots, we should as a matter of urgency, share our resolutions with the security chiefs and the relevant federal government agencies to deepen our working synergy, for a timely approach to halt the sad and ugly resurgence,” he said.
According to Buni, the forum had over the years, built strong relationships, and advanced regional cooperation, providing a common platform to collectively pursue common interests for development.
“As we settle down to commence this important meeting, it is an opportunity for us to review the resolutions of our previous meetings, reflect on how far we have achieved those resolutions, analyze the challenges, and consider workable alternatives to achieve our set goals,” he added.
While recognize the effort of the federal government in the fight against insecurity, the governor equally commended the bravery and courage of the officers and men of the various security organizations, Civilian JTF, Vigilante and Hunter groups.
He noted that many of such security men and women have paid the supreme price in the cause of defending their fatherland and ensure people stay safe and peaceful.
Similarly, Governor Buni has also talked about issues on the economic development and challenges in the region, emphasizing on measures that would enable self sufficiency and economic independence.
Northeast Governors at the 11th Northeast Governors Forum meeting in Yobe State capital, Damaturu
“l am optimistic the Forum would once again reflect on measures that would contribute to unlocking the economic potential of the region. This becomes necessary in view of the over dependence on federal allocation which is increasingly becoming unrealistic and more challenging in meeting our needs.
“Similarly, the need to generate employment opportunities for our youth is very necessary to avoid exposing them as veritable tools for recruitment into terrorism, banditry and other forms of social vices.
“As leaders, we have a moral obligation to make agriculture attractive, affordable and profitable through provision of machines, equipment and other inputs to exploit the rich vast arable lands and the massive population in the region to enhance food sufficiency, food security and economic prosperity,” he explained.
Other speakers also made contribution on security challenges, climate change, agriculture and economic developments among other things.
