President Bola Tinubu has made a firm commitment to eradicate the escalating security challenges plaguing northern Nigeria, declaring that no region would be permitted to suffer while the federal government remains passive.
Security Commitment at ACF Anniversary
The President's strong declaration came during the 25th anniversary celebration of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna on Saturday, November 22. Represented by Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tinubu described the inherited security situation as "daunting" but assured northern leaders of his administration's unwavering determination to restore peace and stability across the region.
"The north is facing one of the gravest tests in its history," Tinubu stated, highlighting the severity of the crisis. "There is a corrosion of security, a collapse of communal ethics and a distortion of the moral compass that once held its communities together."
The President emphasized the critical importance of northern stability to national development, asserting that "Nigeria cannot prosper while a major region remains paralysed." His speech comes amid increasing incidents of mass abductions and deadly attacks by armed groups across northern states, underscoring the urgent need for effective intervention.
Economic Revival Strategy for the North
Beyond security concerns, President Tinubu outlined comprehensive plans to reverse the prolonged economic decline in northern Nigeria. He identified several economic opportunities that could drive the region's recovery, particularly highlighting the anticipated rollout of crude oil production from the Kolmani fields and other emerging economic prospects.
"The north has the potential to reclaim stability and revive its economy," the President expressed with confidence, positioning the region as "a central pillar of Nigeria's progress" in the national development agenda.
Call for Leadership and Unity
Tinubu used the platform to urge northern leaders to embrace unity, selflessness, and accountability in their governance approach. He specifically praised the Arewa Consultative Forum as "a reservoir of patriots, thinkers, moral leaders and negotiators" who have consistently defended the dignity and interests of millions of northern citizens.
The President issued a stern warning to leaders who neglect their responsibilities, stating that "Failure begins the day leaders sleep comfortably while millions sleep hungry or move in fear across short distances."
Despite acknowledging decades of dysfunction in the region, Tinubu expressed optimism, noting that the ethnic and religious diversity present at the ACF anniversary signaled the region's readiness to rebuild unity. "With unity, there is no challenge the region cannot overcome," he affirmed, encouraging the ACF to continue serving as the north's moral compass.
External Perspectives on Security Crisis
The President's address coincides with growing concerns from various quarters about Nigeria's security situation. Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka recently cautioned Nigerian leaders about accepting foreign assistance without careful consideration, warning that unchecked external interventions could further complicate the nation's deepening security crisis.
Soyinka made these remarks on Friday, November 23, at the Government House in Makurdi following a closed-door meeting with Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, during his visit to the state.
As northern Nigeria continues to grapple with persistent security threats, President Tinubu's commitment at the ACF anniversary represents a crucial step toward addressing the root causes of instability while laying the foundation for sustainable economic recovery in the region.
