From left: States governors, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa); Mai Mala Buni (Yobe); Babagana Zulum (Borno); Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe); Agbu Kefas (Taraba) and Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed (Bauchi) during the 12th meeting of the North-East Governors' Forum (NEGF), held in Jalingo, Taraba State on Saturday
The North-East Governors' Forum (NEGF) has warned that the surging cost of agricultural inputs may spark a food crisis in 2026 if urgent measures are not taken.
The concern was raised in a communiqué issued at the end of the forum's 12th meeting, held on Saturday in Jalingo, Taraba State.
The communiqué was signed by the forum's chairman and Borno State governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum.
To avert the looming crisis, the governors recommended increased subsidies for farmers and robust preparations for dry-season farming to boost production.
While acknowledging President Bola Tinubu's ongoing efforts to address insecurity, the forum stressed that a multidimensional approach remains essential to achieving lasting peace in the subregion.
"Regrettably, the subregion is still confronted with daunting humanitarian and infrastructural challenges," the communiqué said.
On climate risks, the forum urged increased sensitisation of communities along floodplains to mitigate anticipated flooding, as predicted by weather agencies.
It also appealed to the federal government and the North-East Development Commission (NEDC) to prioritise the reconstruction of bridges and other key infrastructure destroyed by floods and conflict.
In a move to promote economic integration, the governors announced plans to host the North-East Trade Fair in Maiduguri, Borno State, in December 2025, in partnership with the North-East Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (NECCIMA).
The communiqué further disclosed that the forum's energy committee had been directed to draft a regional master plan, identifying solar power as a "low-hanging fruit" to meet the region's electricity needs.
The two-day meeting also featured a grand dinner and cultural gala on Friday in Jalingo, where the governors underscored the importance of regional solidarity and fostering a spirit of brotherhood in confronting shared challenges.