Governors launch leadership academy, align with FG reforms on economy, education and security
By Wellington Jopelo
A fresh push to improve governance across Nigeria’s states has emerged as the Nigeria Governors’ Forum unveiled a Leadership Academy while aligning with ongoing federal reforms in finance, education, and security.
The decision was reached during the Forum’s first meeting of 2026 in Abuja, where governors held extensive discussions on revenue generation, education expansion, and institutional capacity.
During the session, the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Taiwo Oyedele, briefed governors on fiscal developments, including tax reforms and revenue performance across the federation.
Governors stressed the need to rebuild trust in fiscal systems, highlighting the importance of resolving outstanding financial issues that affect state planning and budget stability.
They also signalled support for measures aimed at expanding the tax base and improving compliance, while ensuring that reforms do not place undue pressure on citizens.
On education, the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, presented plans focused on expanding access and improving infrastructure, particularly at the basic and secondary levels.
Key proposals discussed include a transition to a 12-year uninterrupted basic education model and the continued rollout of a digital data system to better track school enrolment and performance.
In a major institutional move, the Forum announced the creation of a Leadership Academy designed to serve as a hub for training, policy research, and peer learning among state governments.
The academy is expected to support all 36 states by strengthening leadership capacity and improving policy execution at the subnational level.
Governors also reviewed progress in agriculture, particularly efforts to boost rice production through a joint initiative supported by development partners, while acknowledging challenges in financing and market access.
In addition, the Forum noted ongoing work on a proposed state police framework, outlining structures and requirements needed for effective implementation if constitutional amendments are approved.
The meeting reflects a growing effort by state governments to coordinate more closely with the Federal Government on reforms, while building internal capacity to better manage economic and governance challenges.