Nigeria’s 36 state governors have pledged to reinforce security coordination and ensure visible protection in identified hotspots nationwide as the festive season approaches.
This decision came after the 8th meeting of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) held in Abuja from Wednesday to early Thursday, where the governors agreed on key actions to guarantee a safe and peaceful holiday period.
In a communique signed by NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the governors confirmed that they received a letter from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), urging all states to enhance security preparedness. The advisory was linked to expected population movements, large gatherings, and increased safety concerns during the 2025 festive season.
Recent spikes in insecurity, including kidnappings, banditry, and destruction of property across several communities, have heightened public anxiety.
Reading the communique on behalf of the Forum, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun said the governors are determined to work closely with relevant agencies to protect critical infrastructure, prevent attacks, and maintain steady security visibility throughout the festive period.
Meanwhile, the Forum announced that the World Bank has confirmed the effectiveness of the Additional Financing for the Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus (NG-CARES) Programme. This allows continued disbursement of funds to states to support livelihoods, food production, public works, and resilience-building initiatives.
The governors reaffirmed their commitment to efficient implementation, timely reporting, and proper utilisation of the funds to deliver meaningful results for vulnerable households.
The communique also highlighted the outcome of the third edition of the Primary Health Care (PHC) Leadership Challenge Awards held on 12 December 2025. Thirteen states were recognised for exceptional progress in strengthening primary healthcare delivery.
Yobe State emerged as the overall national winner, while Zamfara, Nasarawa, Abia, Rivers, and Osun led in their geopolitical zones. Kwara, Gombe, Kaduna, Anambra, Bayelsa, and Ogun took first runner-up positions.
The governors commended the progress recorded through sustained leadership and accountability and pledged to build on these gains to strengthen PHC systems across the country.
They further assured citizens of their unwavering commitment to security, healthcare improvement, and support for families and communities during the festive season and beyond.
