The thirty-six state governors, united under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), have taken a decisive stance to review existing criminal justice laws urgently within their respective states. This collective effort aims to expedite the judicial process in addressing the individuals responsible for instigating insecurity. Additionally, the governors have pledged their support to the National Security Adviser’s office at the state level to enhance the quality and effectiveness of intelligence operations.
Recognizing the intricate relationship between food inflation, the national currency (naira) depreciation, and the escalating insecurity in various parts of the country, the governors underscored the necessity for a systemic approach. They called for immediate discussions and collaboration among stakeholders to alleviate the situation promptly.
The governors have outlined several strategic actions in their pursuit of comprehensive solutions. Foremost among these is the imperative to reduce the demand for foreign exchange. To achieve this, the governors advocate for moral persuasion to diminish reliance on foreign exchange, imported goods, and services. By doing so, they hope to curb the prevailing security challenges and enhance food stability in the nation.
Furthermore, the NGF commits to supporting the enforcement agencies by revising existing criminal justice laws at the state level. This initiative seeks to ensure the swift dispensation of justice for those causing insecurity within their respective states. Simultaneously, the governors express their dedication to reinforcing the efforts of the National Security Adviser’s office, emphasizing the need for improved intelligence capabilities.
Addressing economic aspects, the governors have called for measures to augment foreign exchange supply. They propose easing commodity export requirements to stimulate exportation and bolster foreign exchange reserves. Additionally, they emphasize the importance of curbing illegal exports of solid minerals and increasing crude oil production to augment foreign exchange earnings.
To address the immediate challenges posed by food scarcity, the NGF, led by Chairman AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, has articulated a multifaceted strategy. This includes deploying emergency food interventions, incentivizing food production, releasing strategic food reserves, and collaborating with food millers and commodity traders at the state level. These collective efforts aim to boost food availability swiftly as a short-term solution.
As encapsulated in the statement released by Chairman AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the NGF’s resolutions signify a collaborative and proactive approach by the state governors to tackle the intertwined challenges of insecurity, economic instability, and food scarcity. Their commitment to immediate and systemic actions reflects a comprehensive strategy to address the nation’s multifaceted issues.
