Northern Leaders Pledge to Address Region’s Challenges
Northern leaders, including Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State and Bauchi State Governor Bala Abdulkadir, gathered at the 11th Annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture and Merit Awards in Bauchi to reaffirm their commitment to addressing the challenges facing the region. The event, which took place on Tuesday, saw the Secretary to the Federal Government, Senator George Akume, joining in on discussions aimed at finding sustainable solutions to the pressing issues affecting the North.
Reflections on the Region’s Potential:
During the lecture, former Minister of Finance Dr. Mansur Mukhtar served as the guest speaker, shedding light on the vast natural resources of the North and the potential they hold in resolving the region’s challenges. Dr. Mukhtar highlighted a time when agriculture was the backbone of Northern Nigeria’s economy, supporting the livelihoods of over 70% of the population. He emphasized the importance of tapping into modern technologies and sustainable farming practices to boost productivity, ensure food security, and create employment opportunities for the people.
In his address, Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State underscored the significance of regional unity in overcoming common challenges. He called for collaborative efforts that transcend boundaries and divisions, emphasizing the need for solidarity in the face of shared adversities. Governor Bala also commended the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation for its role in upholding the legacy of the late premier and promoting unity among Northerners.
Commitment to Collective Action:
Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State reiterated the Northern Governors’ unwavering commitment to addressing the region’s challenges and maximizing the available resources for economic growth. He acknowledged the prevalent issues of inadequate infrastructure, high unemployment rates, and persistent poverty, urging a united front in tackling these issues head-on. Governor Yahaya specifically pointed out the various security threats plaguing different Northern sub-regions, from banditry and kidnapping in the Northwest to ethno-religious conflicts in the North-Central and insurgency in the Northeast. He emphasized the importance of tailored solutions that align with a shared vision for regional development.
As the leaders and stakeholders of the North come together to confront the multifaceted challenges that hinder the region’s progress, their collective commitment and determination signal a renewed sense of purpose and unity. The call for leveraging technology, embracing sustainable practices, and fostering collaboration across all levels reflects a strategic approach to addressing the longstanding issues that have impeded the North’s growth and development. With a shared vision and a spirit of cooperation, Northern leaders are poised to chart a path towards a brighter and more prosperous future for the region and its people.
