The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has unveiled a new Leadership Academy and pledged support for ongoing fiscal, education, and security reforms being implemented by the Federal Government to strengthen governance and improve service delivery across Nigeria.
The announcement followed the NGF’s first meeting of 2026 held in Abuja, which extended from Wednesday into the early hours of Thursday, where governors received briefings on key national policy reforms and economic developments.
At the meeting, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, and the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, presented updates on tax reforms, revenue performance, and education sector restructuring plans.
The Forum reaffirmed its commitment to collaborate with the Federal Government in strengthening state capacity and ensuring effective implementation of reforms.
“The Forum warmly congratulated the Honourable Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy… Governors underscored the imperative of restoring confidence in fiscal management systems,” the communiqué stated.
Leadership academy launch
The NGF also announced the establishment of a Leadership Academy as a new directorate within its Secretariat, designed to enhance governance capacity across Nigeria’s 36 states.
According to the communiqué signed by NGF Chairman, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the academy will serve as a hub for executive training, applied research, peer learning, and governance advisory services.
Governors described the initiative as a strategic intervention to strengthen leadership quality and improve policy execution at the subnational level.
Fiscal and tax reform support
During the session, governors deliberated extensively on ongoing fiscal reforms, including tax restructuring, revenue mobilisation, and the performance of the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC).
The NGF stressed the need for improved fiscal discipline and timely resolution of outstanding revenue issues affecting state budgeting processes.
Governors also endorsed reforms aimed at broadening the tax base, improving compliance, and reducing the burden on basic consumption.
“We reaffirm our commitment to working in close partnership… to advance shared fiscal objectives in the interest of all Nigerians,” the communiqué added.
Education reform push
The Forum also received a detailed presentation on the Federal Government’s education reform agenda, including proposals for a 12-year basic education model and expansion of secondary school infrastructure.
Governors expressed support for the rollout of the Digital National Education Management Information System (NEMIS) and emphasised the need to expand access to quality education amid rising enrolment pressures.
The NGF reiterated its commitment to ensuring that education resources reach local communities more effectively.
Security and state policing framework
On security, the Forum reviewed progress on a proposed State Police Framework being developed in anticipation of constitutional amendments.
The framework outlines governance structures, funding models, recruitment standards, and digital oversight mechanisms for potential subnational policing systems.
Governors described the initiative as critical to addressing Nigeria’s evolving security challenges and improving rapid response capabilities at the state level.
Agriculture and food security
The NGF also highlighted progress on its States Agribusiness Investment Programme, particularly the Rice Helpdesk initiative supported by the Gates Foundation.
The programme aims to strengthen state capacity in rice production, value chain development, and food security interventions.
Governors reaffirmed their commitment to tackling institutional and financing barriers affecting agricultural productivity nationwide.
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