Northern Nigerian Administrative Chiefs Convene in Kaduna to Finalize Regional Policy Agenda for Governors’ Summit

Secretaries to the State Governments of 19 northern states finalize a strategic development roadmap for the 2026 Northern Governors' Summit in Kaduna.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 30, 2026, 6:31 AM EDT

Source: The information in this article was sourced from Punch

A Strategic Prelude to the Regional Governors’ Summit

The Forum of Secretaries to the State Governments (SSGs) representing the 19 northern states gathered at the General Hassan Katsina House in Kaduna to establish a unified legislative and developmental agenda. This preparatory session was designed to align the administrative priorities of the various states ahead of the high-level meeting of their respective governors. Professor Ibrahim Njodi, the Secretary to the Government of Gombe State, presided over the discussions, emphasizing that the collective dedication of these administrative chiefs is vital for regional cohesion and national progress. According to Njodi, the synchronization of state efforts is the primary mechanism for ensuring that regional goals are translated into actionable policies.

Institutional Reforms to Strengthen Policy Delivery

A central theme of the Kaduna gathering was the ongoing restructuring of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) to enhance its operational efficiency. Njodi highlighted that the appointment of a substantive Director-General is a cornerstone of these broader reforms, aimed at deepening the impact of regional programs. The administrative framework is being adjusted to ensure that the delivery of social and economic policies is more direct and transparent. By strengthening the central coordination office, the forum intends to bridge the gap between high-level gubernatorial decisions and the grassroots implementation of infrastructure and security projects across the North.

Introduction of New Leadership within the Governors’ Forum

The meeting served as the formal introduction of Ezekiel Gomos as the newly appointed Director-General of the NSGF. Gomos, described by his colleagues as a seasoned administrator with extensive public service experience, is expected to lead the technical arm of the governors' collective. Njodi expressed confidence in the new Director-General’s ability to navigate the complex socio-economic landscape of the region. The SSGs committed to maintaining a robust partnership with Gomos's office, ensuring that the administrative machinery of all 19 states remains in lockstep with the forum's strategic objectives.