Northern Governors Call EndBadGovernance Protest a “Wake-Up Call,” Reject Tax Reform Bill

Northern governors have described the August #EndBadGovernance protests as a critical wake-up call for leaders, stressing that youth unrest across the region demands immediate and sustained action. Rising concerns over illiteracy, poverty, and limited economic opportunities are reportedly fueling social discontent among Northern youth, and leaders argue that reform is now more urgent than ever.

At a forum in Kaduna, Gombe State Governor and Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) Chairman, Muhammadu Yahaya, highlighted the protests as a signal of deeper issues. “Our young people are demanding change,” he said. “We must listen and respond by addressing the root causes of youth restiveness through investments in education, skills training, and job creation. Only by creating productive avenues can we reduce the vulnerability of our youth to crime and social vices.”

The meeting brought together top political figures, traditional leaders, including the Sultan of Sokoto, military officers, and key stakeholders to discuss pressing issues affecting the North.

Economic Challenges and Call for Federal Support

Governor Yahaya acknowledged the economic challenges currently faced by Nigerians, especially in the North, where disparities are more pronounced. The NSGF urged leaders to adopt social programs, support small and medium-sized businesses, and enact policies that encourage investment in the North. In addition, the governors committed to working with the federal government to develop policies that are sensitive to local realities and reduce the economic hardship across the region.

Tax Reform Bill Rejected

One major outcome of the meeting was the NSGF’s rejection of the proposed Tax Reform Bill currently with the National Assembly. The Northern governors objected to the bill’s amendments to the Value Added Tax (VAT) distribution model, arguing that a shift to a derivation-based system would unfairly impact Northern states. As it stands, VAT is remitted based on the location of a company’s headquarters, not the regions where goods and services are consumed, which the Northern leaders claim disadvantages the region economically.

The forum urged Northern representatives in the National Assembly to oppose the bill, deeming it harmful to Northern interests.

Commitment to Security, Infrastructure, and Agricultural Development

In a communiqué issued at the close of the meeting, the NSGF commended recent progress in combating crime, particularly the successes against banditry and terrorism, crediting the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, for his innovative and effective approach. However, they emphasized the need for sustained security efforts to ensure lasting peace in the North.

The forum also addressed ongoing electricity blackouts across Northern states, caused by frequent vandalism of transmission infrastructure. The governors called on the federal government to prioritize the diversification of the country’s energy supply, reduce vulnerability in critical infrastructure, and establish a more resilient energy system.

Furthermore, the NSGF discussed the North’s untapped agricultural potential, advocating for greater support for farmers, including access to financing, advanced farming techniques, and infrastructure development. The governors view agriculture as a pathway to economic growth, job creation, and industrialization, with a special focus on reviving the region’s textile industry and other agro-based sectors.

Addressing Climate Challenges and Education Deficits

The forum also pledged to address climate-related challenges, especially the recent flooding that has devastated parts of the North. Plans are underway to build irrigation canals and waterways to redirect floodwaters toward agricultural use, enhancing rural livelihoods and strengthening food security.

Additionally, the NSGF expressed concern over high rates of out-of-school children and vowed to work towards better educational outcomes.

Support for Livestock Reform Initiatives

The governors praised the President’s reform efforts in the livestock sector and committed to supporting the federal government’s livestock development initiatives. They plan to work closely with the Presidential Livestock Reforms Implementation Committee to bring about meaningful change in livestock management.

In conclusion, the NSGF emphasized the urgency of acting on the demands of the region’s youth, addressing economic inequalities, and pushing for infrastructure and agricultural development as pathways to stability and growth.