Governors of Nigeria’s North-East region have raised serious concerns over looming humanitarian and economic challenges, warning of potential large-scale flooding, a food crisis, and worsening energy shortages.
The warning came in a communiqué issued at the end of the 12th North-East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) meeting, held on Saturday in Jalingo, Taraba State. The meeting was chaired by Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum.
Flooding Concerns
The governors revealed that climate forecasts from credible agencies have predicted heavy flooding across the region in the coming months. They emphasized the urgent need for proactive measures, including public sensitisation campaigns for residents living along flood-prone areas.
They also appealed to the Federal Government and the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) to fast-track the reconstruction of critical infrastructure—especially roads and bridges damaged by previous floods—to avoid further isolation of communities.
Food Security Worries
On agriculture, the Forum expressed alarm over the rising cost of farm inputs, particularly fertilisers. The governors warned that if the trend continues, crop yields may drastically fall in the next farming season, thereby worsening food insecurity in the already fragile region.
To prevent this, the governors called for increased government subsidies to farmers and stronger preparations for dry-season farming as a cushion against reduced harvests.
Regional Trade and Investment
The governors also announced that the North-East Trade Fair would hold in Maiduguri, Borno State, in December 2025, in partnership with the North-East Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NECCIMA). According to the communiqué, the fair is expected to boost regional commerce, attract investors, and stimulate local industries.
Tackling Energy Poverty
Energy challenges featured prominently at the meeting. The governors acknowledged that the North-East continues to suffer from acute power shortages, hampering economic and social development.
They therefore tasked the Committee on Power and Energy in the region to develop an Integrated Subregional Power Masterplan, aimed at providing long-term solutions to energy poverty and driving industrialisation.
