The Arewa Grassroots Leaders Assembly (AGLA) has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement policies that address insecurity in the northern region.
The group requested for an increased military presence and community-led initiatives to enhance security and address persistent threats from banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
A statement signed weekend in Abuja by its President Onogu Collins Monday, called for improved access to quality education and vocational training to address the alarming rates of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria.
The statement also recommended increased funding for primary healthcare facilities and personnel to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and services.
“Our region faces unique challenges, from insecurity to economic disparities. As leaders, we recognize the need for collective action to address these issues,” the statement read.
“We urge President Tinubu’s administration to implement policies that address our region’s specific needs. We request increased military presence and community-led initiatives to enhance security, particularly in the face of persistent threats from banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
“We also propose investments in agriculture, education, and entrepreneurship programs to stimulate economic development and address poverty and unemployment.”
Furthermore, AGLA advocates for improved access to quality education and vocational training to address the alarming rates of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria. The group also recommends increased funding for primary healthcare facilities and personnel to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and services.
The statement acknowledged President Tinubu’s efforts to prioritize funding for agriculture and education, as well as maintaining good relations with Nigeria’s neighbors. The prioritization of the Sokoto-Badagry Highway, the Trans-Saharan Highway, and efforts to fast-track the completion of the Ajaokuta Steel Complex were also commended.
However, the group urged the President to reconsider policies that may negatively impact Northern Nigeria, such as inadequate funding for critical infrastructure and social services, insufficient representation in key government positions, and a lack of support for regional economic development initiatives.
To address insecurity, AGLA plans to host a security summit, bringing together at least 5,000 grassroots and community leaders. This summit will take place after consultations with security heads and critical stakeholders. The aim is to discuss community-led initiatives to enhance security, identify areas of collaboration with security agencies, and develop a comprehensive plan to address insecurity in Northern Nigeria.
“We believe that by working together, we can create a brighter future for Northern Nigeria and contribute to a more prosperous, united Nigeria.
“We urge President Tinubu to implement policies that address our region’s specific needs and look forward to collaborating with his administration,” the statement concluded.