The North-East Governors’ Forum (NEGF) has expressed deep concern over the rising cost of agricultural inputs in the country, warning that it could lead to reduced farm outputs and possible food crisis in the coming year.
This was contained in a communique issued at the end of the Forum’s 12th meeting held on Saturday in Jalingo, Taraba State, and signed by its Chairman, Gov. Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno.
The Forum said unless urgent steps were taken, the trend might have “direct negative consequences” on food security in the subregion.
“To avert impending food crises ahead, the Forum calls for more subsidies to farmers and robust preparation for dry season farming,” the communique stated.
It urged the Federal Government and relevant stakeholders to intervene by supporting farmers to boost production and prevent hunger in the subregion and the country at large.
The Forum also reviewed security, climate change, energy and economic development issues affecting the region. It acknowledged the gains made in the fight against insurgency but noted persisting humanitarian and infrastructural challenges.
On climate risk, the governors expressed worry over forecasts of impending flood disaster, calling for proactive measures, sensitisation of communities along flood plains and reconstruction of critical infrastructure damaged by flood.
The Forum further resolved to hold the North-East Trade Fair in Maiduguri, Borno, in December in collaboration with the North East Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NECCIMA).
It also reaffirmed its commitment to reducing energy poverty through a subregional integrated power master plan, building on the option of solar energy as a sustainable source.
The governors congratulated the University of Maiduguri on its golden jubilee, pledging to support the 50th anniversary celebration and the re-launch of the University’s Endowment Fund in November.
The next meeting of the Forum will hold in Maiduguri between Dec. 12 and Dec. 14, 2025.
