At the 25th anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna, former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, and business magnate, Aliko Dangote, called for renewed unity in Nigeria’s northern region, stressing the importance of consistent policies and a return to long-standing development priorities.
Abubakar praised the ACF for its sustained role in guiding Northern interests over the past quarter-century, navigating political shifts and socio-economic pressures.
He honoured past leaders whose contributions, he said, helped anchor the region during challenging periods.
Reflecting on the formation of the ACF, Abubakar recalled efforts in the late 1990s to unify fragmented political factions under a single platform.
He noted that these initiatives, supported by figures such as the Emir of Ilorin, Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, laid the foundation for the ACF as a unified Northern voice under leaders like retired Gen. Yakubu Gowon and the late M.D. Yusufu.
Abubakar emphasised that the North’s enduring development prioritised education, agriculture, and industry remained crucial today.
Highlighting past programmes, he spoke of initiatives that rebuilt schools, retrained teachers, promoted agricultural reform, and sought to integrate climate-smart strategies into farming.
Yet, he warned that challenges such as inconsistent power supply, financing gaps, and overlapping taxation continue to limit progress.
On the issue of regional cohesion, Abubakar stressed that managing diversity effectively was key.
Citing historical examples, he urged leaders to resist external attempts to sow division and encouraged inclusive leadership to ensure stability.
He also highlighted pressing challenges, including population growth, food security, educational deficits, and youth unemployment, warning that inaction could stall Northern progress.
Dangote reinforced these points, calling for deliberate policies to boost industrial growth and modernise agriculture.
He noted that inconsistent policy and unreliable electricity supply remain significant obstacles, forcing businesses to seek alternatives.
Dangote stressed that economic growth and security are intertwined, arguing that revitalised agriculture and industrialisation could curb insecurity and foster regional prosperity.
Both leaders appealed to Northern elders, policymakers, and stakeholders to recommit to unity, purposeful governance, and socio-economic development, emphasising that the region has the resources to lead West Africa in food production and industrialisation.
