The Northern Ethnic Nationality Forum (NENF), representing socio-cultural and political leaders from Nigeria’s 19 northern states, has urged President Bola Tinubu to urgently reshuffle his cabinet and reform the nation’s security framework to address escalating economic and security challenges.
In a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja, signed by Convener Dominic Alancha, the NENF expressed alarm over the “painful conditions” afflicting northern Nigeria and the nation, describing the situation as a “full-blown catastrophe.”
The group criticized the “glaring underperformance” of several ministers, arguing that the current Federal Executive Council (FEC) lacks the competence and political clout to advance Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Ministerial roles are not rewards for loyalty but critical assignments. We demand the immediate dissolution and reshuffling of the FEC, replacing underperformers with capable, influential leaders of integrity,” the statement read, emphasizing the need for a stronger cabinet to bolster national development and Tinubu’s 2027 re-election prospects.
On security, the NENF decried the devastating impact of banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping, which have disrupted farming, commerce, and transportation across northern states.
Labeling the performance of current Service Chiefs as inadequate despite significant resources, the Forum called for their immediate dismissal and the appointment of new military leaders with a clear mandate.
It also advocated for a state of emergency on security in the North, proposing a “targeted, multi-agency operation” to dismantle terrorist networks and restore order without excessive militarization.
While acknowledging Tinubu’s economic reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification, the NENF urged stronger measures to mitigate citizen hardship, such as expanded palliatives, investments in agriculture and manufacturing, and improvements in power, transport, and infrastructure.
The group also called for greater empathy from the President to bridge the growing disconnect with Nigerians.
“We supported Tinubu’s ambition and are willing to do so again in 2027, but this hinges on decisive, empathetic governance. The time to act is now,” the Forum warned, signaling that failure to address these issues could erode political support in the North.
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