Governors’ Forum Advance Vision In Constitutional Reform
By COLLINS YAKUBU-HAMMER
THE Northwest Governors Forum says the region is set and determined to shape its future on governance, justice and equity in the constitutional journey of the country.
The Director-General, Hajiya Maryam Yahaya, made this known at the Northwest Governors Forum Constitutional Review Consultative Meeting in Abuja.
The meeting had as its theme, “Aligning Regional Priorities for a People-Centred Constitution”.
“Today is not just another policy engagement, it is a gathering of minds committed to shaping the future of governance, justice, equity, and inclusion in our region and our country at large.
“Across the Northwest states, conversations have been ongoing; from state executive councils to houses of assembly, civil society forums, and traditional institutions; all aimed at contributing to Nigeria’s constitutional review process.
“We are here today to synthesise those voices to rigorously interrogate what unites us, and to build a shared strategic position that reflects the needs, realities, and aspirations of the Northwest region.
“Our governors have entrusted us with the responsibility of developing the “Northwest Common Position on Constitutional Reform.”
“It is now our duty and responsibility to deliver a document that reflects both the wisdom of our region and the urgency of our time,” Yahaya said.
Similarly, the Chairman, Board of Directors Northern Nigerian Development Company, Alhaji Lamis Dikko, said Northwest along with its sister sub-regions of Northeast and Central stood as a pillar of Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
Dikko stressed the need for fair derivation mechanisms and review of the deductions before FAAC distribution.
“Local governments must be constitutionally clarified and empowered. Viability should be performance-based and tied to transparency and accountability, not political convenience.
“We believe in a coordinated security framework with local effectiveness. State-led initiatives backed by law and supported by regional security funds can reinforce national efforts.
“The North supports reforms that deepen internal democracy, independent candidacies, and foster inclusion. The constitution must unlock the full potential of each region, so that no part of the country is structurally disadvantaged,” Dikko said.
According to him, the North seeks no favour beyond fairness, and no privilege above parity. All Nigerians should have equal opportunity, regardless of diversity.
He added that states must flourish autonomously, while contributing to country’s indivisible national strength.
“To translate ideas into action, we propose that governors should approve and ensure that there is mobilisation of the Northern caucuses in the National Assembly,” he also said.
Report states that commissioners for justice and attorneys general of Northwest states, chairpersons of the constitutional review committees from across the region and other stakeholders were in attendance.
(NAN)
