The six North-East states are moving to strengthen regional connectivity and economic activity with a ₦10.8 billion contribution towards a proposed regional airline and the planned deployment of nearly 10,000 electric vehicles and tricycles.

The Chairman of the North-East Governors’ Forum and Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, disclosed the initiatives on Friday at the 10th meeting of the forum in Maiduguri.

Zulum said the governors had so far mobilised ₦10.8 billion in counterpart funding for the proposed North-East Air Shuttle, adding that outstanding contributions would be paid before the end of October to pave the way for the commencement of flight operations.

The project is expected to improve air links among Adamawa, Bauchi, Borno, Gombe, Taraba and Yobe and strengthen movement of people, goods and investment across the sub-region.

Beyond aviation, the governors are also pursuing a regional transition to cleaner transportation.

Zulum praised the North-East Development Commission for procuring almost 10,000 electric vehicles and e-tricycles for the region. The fleet is expected to be formally launched by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The governor said the initiatives formed part of broader efforts to rebuild the region and create the conditions for sustainable economic growth after years of insurgency and displacement.

He also welcomed the resumption of oil exploration at the Kolmani oilfield in Bauchi State, describing the project as an opportunity to generate jobs, expand infrastructure and increase revenue for host communities.

Zulum called for exploration to be extended to other potentially productive areas, including Bama, Monguno and the Lake Chad Basin in Borno State.

He further highlighted the Federal Government’s $1 billion Household Prosperity and Economic Social Protection Project for the North-East, saying the programme could help shift the region from dependence on humanitarian assistance towards recovery and sustainable prosperity.

On security, the governor acknowledged improvements in the region but cautioned against complacency. He credited the military, cooperation among the six states and non-kinetic initiatives such as the Safe Corridor programme for the gains recorded.

The governors also reaffirmed plans to establish 10-megawatt solar power plants in each of the six states, while working with the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development to improve animal production, healthcare and processing.

They also agreed to strengthen agricultural storage, processing and off-taking systems to reduce post-harvest losses and create greater value for farmers.

Zulum urged the governors to translate the forum’s decisions into concrete projects that directly improve the lives of residents.

He said the people of the region expected better security, roads, schools, healthcare, jobs and stronger local economies.