President Bola Tinubu has restated his commitment to confronting the worsening insecurity in Northern Nigeria, pledging that his administration will not allow any part of the country to “bleed unnoticed” in the face of banditry, terrorism, and communal violence. His message was delivered in Kaduna during events marking the 25th anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF).
Represented by Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajuddeen Abbas, President Tinubu said his government inherited a deeply entrenched security challenge that has destabilised several northern states, disrupted livelihoods, and weakened public confidence. He assured northern leaders that restoring stability remains one of his highest priorities.
“No Region Must Remain Paralysed”
Tinubu warned that Nigeria’s national growth is impossible if the North—home to more than half the country’s population and a critical driver of agriculture and commerce—continues to face waves of violence. He said the North’s stability is essential not only for regional wellbeing but for the country’s overall peace and economic future.
He described the ACF as a “moral compass and voice of reason” that has guided northern public discourse for 25 years. The forum, made up of political elders, intellectuals and community leaders, has often acted as mediator during periods of national tension.
Security, Economy and Regional Morale Under Pressure
According to Tinubu, Northern Nigeria faces one of its most difficult moments, with security breakdowns, eroding community values, and weakened social structures. But he insisted the region is not failing and emphasised that failure would only come if leaders abdicate their duty to protect their citizens.
He cautioned that leadership “loses its relevance” if those in authority sleep comfortably while millions endure hunger, displacement or fear of travelling due to bandit attacks.
Infrastructure, Oil Prospects and Regional Development
Despite the challenges, Tinubu expressed optimism that the North is on the verge of renewed economic momentum. He highlighted the potential of crude oil production in the Kolmani fields, located between Bauchi and Gombe states, as well as other emerging industrial prospects.
He also provided updates on federal infrastructure projects, including rail, road and water transport developments. Notably, he announced that the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Superhighway is nearing completion and is expected to be commissioned in Kano in the coming months.
ACF’s New Endowment Fund Welcomed
Tinubu applauded the ACF’s proposal to establish an Endowment Fund aimed at supporting girl-child education, youth skills training, peacebuilding programmes and conflict-resolution initiatives. He described the fund as a “forward-looking intervention” that aligns with the region’s long-term development needs.
Call for Renewed Northern Solidarity
The President urged political leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society organisations across the North to recommit to the founding values of the ACF—justice, fairness, courage and collective responsibility. He stressed that unity remains the region’s most powerful tool against insecurity and social decline.
“With unity, there is no challenge the North cannot overcome,” he said.
Source:Africa Publicity
