Bashir M. Dalhatu led chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum, (ACF), has commended the Northern States Governors’ Forum for establishing the Northern Nigeria Security Trust Fund, describing it as a landmark initiative to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes in the region.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, July 9, 2026 and signed by the Chairman of its Board of Trustees, Bashir M. Dalhatu, Wazirin Dutse, the ACF said the Fund reflects the Governors’ recognition that the security crisis in Northern Nigeria demands collective action and sustained commitment beyond federal efforts.
“The ACF considers the establishment of the Trust Fund to be one of the most significant regional initiatives in recent years,” the statement said. “It is indeed difficult to overstate the importance of this initiative.”
The Forum noted that the North, once known for peaceful communities, thriving agriculture and vibrant commerce, now bears “the scars of years of relentless violence” by terrorists, bandits and kidnappers.
It added that restoring peace and security is the foundation for economic recovery, social progress and national development.
According to the Bashir Dalhatu led ACF board, if properly managed and adequately supported, the Trust Fund will provide resources to strengthen intelligence gathering, surveillance, logistics, communications, technology, community-based security, and victim support programmes.
The Forum congratulated the members of the Board appointed to oversee the Fund, particularly the Co-Chairmen, Alhaji Mahmud Yayale Ahmed, former Minister of Defence and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, and General Martin Luther Agwai, Rtd., former Chief of Defence Staff.
“Their outstanding records of public service, administrative leadership and national security experience inspire confidence that the Board will discharge its responsibilities with integrity, transparency and accountability,” ACF stated.
It also congratulated other eminent members of the Board, saying the credibility and effectiveness of the Trust Fund will depend on professionalism, sound corporate governance and public confidence.
The ACF urged the Northern Governors to sustain the political will behind the initiative and ensure the Fund remains transparent and dedicated to restoring peace, protecting lives and property, and creating an environment for economic and social development.
“The people of the region have endured crippling hardship for too long. They deserve to live in peace, cultivate their farms without fear, conduct their businesses safely and look to the future with genuine confidence and hope,” the statement added.
The Forum assured the Northern Governors, the Board of the Trust Fund and all stakeholders of its “unwavering support for every sincere and practical effort aimed at ending insecurity and rebuilding Northern Nigeria.”
