The North-West Governors’ Forum has convened a high-level policy dialogue in Kano to reduce multidimensional poverty through scaled-up social protection systems and innovative financing.

The summit, which drew policymakers, development partners, and technical experts from across the seven North-West states, focused on devising practical and sustainable strategies to tackle the drivers of multidimensional poverty.

The governors paid particular attention to children, women, and other vulnerable groups in the North-West.

Declaring the dialogue open, Governor Abba Yusuf said social protection should be treated not merely as a welfare measure but as a strategic investment in human capital, social stability, and economic growth.

Represented by his deputy, Murtala Sule-Garo, Mr Yusuf highlighted Kano’s steps to institutionalise social protection, including the 2025 Social Protection Policy Law and the establishment of the Social Protection Directorate under the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation.

In her welcome address, NWGF’s director-general, Maryam Yahaya, described the dialogue as a defining moment for the region.

She added that in spite of its population, human capital, and economic potential, the North-West still faces high multidimensional poverty, poor health outcomes, insecurity, and a growing number of out-of-school children.

According to her, these challenges cross state boundaries and demand coordinated regional responses, and she urges that social protection be seen as an investment in stability, productivity, and the region’s future.

Ms Yahaya noted that the NWGF had adopted the North-West Peace, Security and Development Framework to tackle fragility and accelerate human development by linking peace, security, economic growth, and social wellbeing.

Delivering a goodwill message, UNICEF’s deputy representative, Rownak Khan, highlighted severe challenges facing children in the North-West, including high maternal mortality, malnutrition, stunting, and limited access to essential services.

She observed that child-focused social protection programmes, such as unconditional cash transfers, were vital for improving access to healthcare, education, and nutrition.

(NAN)