North-West Governors Demand State Police, Fairer Revenue Sharing in Constitutional Review

The North-West Governors’ Forum has called for a more equitable revenue allocation system and the establishment of state police to tackle rising insecurity and economic hardship in the region.

Speaking on behalf of the Forum Chair and Katsina State Governor, Dikko Radda, Kaduna State Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe delivered the position during a constitutional review session in Abuja on Monday.

“Our states host millions of displaced people due to persistent banditry and conflict,” Balarabe said. “We need a revenue sharing formula that reflects our population size and the unique challenges we face.”

She further emphasized the need for greater resource control by states and a decentralized security architecture, advocating for the creation of state police.

“This is a crucial opportunity to push for reforms that align with current realities,” she added.

The session brought together government officials, legal experts, and civil society representatives from across the North-West to present a unified stance on constitutional amendments. The collective document, titled The North-West Common Position on Constitutional Reform, outlines the region’s priorities.

Maryam Musa, Director-General of the North-West Governors’ Forum, noted that the proposals followed extensive consultations across the seven states in the region.

“We are here to speak with one voice. Our governors have mandated us to draft practical, united proposals that reflect the aspirations of our people,” Musa said.