In a bid to tackle the prevailing challenges facing Northern Nigeria, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, chairman Northern State Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Gombe state governor, has emphasised the importance of unity, decisive action, and effective governance.
Speaking at the annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture held in Maiduguri, Borno state, Governor Inuwa Yahaya stressed the need to revisit the principles of the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Sir Ahmadu Bello.
During the lecture, Governor Yahaya urged northern leaders to align their actions with the region’s envisioned progress and address the existing disconnect between the government and the people.
Emphasising the importance of practical solutions, the governor highlighted the significance of unity, determination, and effective governance in addressing the challenges faced by northern Nigeria.
Governor Yahaya disclosed NSGF’s strategic roadmap designed to address the root causes of underdevelopment in the region and underscored good governance as a potent antidote to security challenges.
He said, “We believe that only through good governance, unity, and a shared commitment to progress can we overcome the security challenges affecting us.”
The governor emphasised the prioritisation of citizens’ well-being through access to quality education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, with a focus on principles such as equity, fairness, justice, and inclusivity.
Reflecting on Sir Ahmadu Bello’s legacy, Governor Inuwa posed critical questions to northern leaders, pondering how the late statesman would respond to the current security challenges, noting that “Sir Ahmadu Bello would have reacted decisively with unity, determination, and effective governance.”
Acknowledging the prevalent insecurity, including cattle rustling, kidnapping, and banditry, Governor Yahaya advocated for collaborative efforts across state lines. He encouraged partnerships, intelligence sharing, and resource collaboration to combat criminal elements, threatening peace and stability in the region.
In his remarks, Muazu Babangida Aliyu, chairman of the Advisory Council of Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s leadership in Gombe. He encouraged the NSGF chairman to lead a peer review among his colleagues, citing admiration for Gombe’s reported strides.
