By Omeiza Ajayi, ABUJA

As part of measures to complement efforts of the Federal Government in tackling the nation’s myriad of security challenges, states controlled by the ruling All Progressives Congress APC have committed themselves to strengthen the legal framework for the implementation of Security Trust Fund in their various areas of responsibility.

The decision was part of the communique issued at the end of the 12th Quarterly Meeting of Secretaries to Government of APC States which was hosted in Lafia by the Nasarawa State Government.

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The meeting was declared open by the Governor of Nasarawa State, Engr. Abdullahi A. Sule had as its theme “Setting Enabling Framework for Implementation of PGF Policy Briefs”.

The APC States undertook “to strengthen regular processes of information sharing on issues of security management among APC controlled States to facilitate synergy of initiatives and proactive responses.

Participants also recommended that “The APC States strengthen the Security Committees at the Local Government Levels and ensure that all stakeholders, especially traditional and religious take more responsibility and are made to be more accountable to government in responding to security challenges.

“To continually mobilize resources for the management of security challenges, APC controlled States are enjoined to strengthen the legal framework for the implementation of Security Trust Fund.

“The meeting noted with strong commendation the renewed offensive by Nigerian Security Agencies against criminal elements across the country. Accordingly, reaffirmed the commitment of APC State governments to continue to work with the Federal Government under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that every part of Nigeria is safe”, the communique added.

Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government, Barr. Muhammad Ubandoma Aliyu and Director General of the Progressive Governors’ Forum PGF, Salihu Moh. Lukman who jointly signed the communique noted that the objective of the meeting was to review the status of the Implementation Framework for Promoting Maternal and Child Nutrition in APC controlled States and provide necessary guidelines to enhance the engagement of stakeholders.

“In addition, the meeting also reviewed security challenges and note initiatives being implemented by the APC States to contain the situation.

“Following all the presentations and recognising the commitment of APC as provided in the party manifesto, the meeting resolves as follows:

“APC controlled States would prioritise adequate support for working nursing mothers, including the adoption of six months maternity leave for nursing mothers to enhance Exclusive Breast Feeding (EBF);

“Issues of Maternal and Child Nutrition should be integrated into the Primary Healthcare Delivery Services; APC controlled States would strengthen coordination of initiatives to fast track implementation of Maternal and Child Nutrition programmes with a focus on health, education and agricultural sectors”, the added.

Vanguard News Nigeria