Boko Haram weakened, not defeated –Northern governors chairman

Gombe State Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum, has stated that Boko Haram insurgents are weakened but not completely defeated. Speaking at the forum's 13th meeting in Maiduguri, Yahaya emphasized that insecurity remains a major challenge in northern Nigeria. He mentioned that Boko Haram attacks continue and that banditry and communal clashes are emerging threats.

Yahaya highlighted that the persistent insecurity has hindered the safe return of displaced individuals to their communities. He also expressed concern over the sluggish progress on major development projects such as the Mambilla hydropower project, regional railway connections, and broadband expansion. Despite these challenges, Yahaya stressed that the region is grappling with significant issues in healthcare and education, even though some improvements have been made in recent years.

The formation of the North East Governors’ Forum in March 2020 was driven by the collective need to address issues that individual states could not handle alone. Yahaya noted that the forum has made strides in infrastructure, electricity, economic development, human capital development, and security. He also highlighted the Kolmani oil exploration project as a significant opportunity for the region, emphasizing the potential for jobs and increased government revenue if the project successfully yields oil.