‘Our people expect security that allows them to live peacefully’ – Zulum tells North-East govs
Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum has urged governors in the North-East region to prioritize security, emphasizing that sustained peace is crucial for the area’s economic and social progress.
During the opening of the North East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) on Friday in Maiduguri, Zulum, who chairs the forum, noted that the region has seen improvements in security over recent years. He attributed these enhancements to the efforts of the Nigerian Armed Forces, inter-state collaboration, and initiatives such as the Safe Corridor Initiative, which facilitates the surrender and rehabilitation of former insurgents.
Despite the advancements, Zulum cautioned against complacency, stating that ongoing security is vital for driving economic development, healthcare, and education.
The governor also outlined several key development initiatives for the North-East, including plans to establish 10-megawatt solar power plants in each of the six states. Additionally, the states are collaborating with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to enhance livestock production, animal healthcare, and processing facilities.
Zulum praised the North East Development Commission (NEDC) for acquiring nearly 10,000 electric vehicles and e-tricycles for the region, which are intended to bolster transportation and economic activities.
He further called on state governments to improve systems for storing, processing, and purchasing agricultural products in order to minimize post-harvest losses and enhance the value of farm output.
“Our people expect results,” Zulum stated. “They expect security that allows them to live peacefully, roads that connect their communities, schools that prepare their children for the future, hospitals that save lives, jobs that restore dignity, and economies that enable families to prosper.”
