Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, has expressed optimism that Northern Nigeria can overcome its persistent security challenges, calling on leaders and stakeholders to unite and leverage available resources to restore peace and stability across the region.
Speaking at the 25th anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna, Jibrin said the North has the capacity to surmount insecurity, emphasizing that coordinated action and political will can replicate the successes seen in other parts of the country.
He congratulated the ACF on its Silver Jubilee, praising the forum for serving as a unifying voice and advocating for solutions to challenges confronting Northern Nigeria while contributing to national development.
On behalf of the Senate President and the Senate, Barau also honoured the founding fathers of the ACF, particularly those no longer alive, describing their foresight and sacrifice as critical to building a resilient North.
Barau referred to a trend analysis presented earlier, noting that while such reports may highlight problems, they do not reflect the North’s long-standing culture of resilience and determination to confront challenges head-on.
He acknowledged that insecurity in the region is a serious concern but stressed that similar threats exist across West Africa, and that solutions are achievable through collaboration, good leadership, and effective security coordination.
Highlighting the readiness of Northern leaders at the federal level, Barau said the Speaker of the House, the Deputy Senate President, and other leaders are prepared to work together with states and local institutions to address the root causes of insecurity.
He urged Northern governments and institutions to leverage increased revenues and engage the National Assembly to fund and support security initiatives, adding that where local resources fall short, the President is willing to intervene.
The Deputy Senate President further called on the ACF to facilitate dialogue among leaders and stakeholders, stressing that inclusive conversations and coordinated efforts are key to designing sustainable solutions and ensuring the safety of communities.
He concluded with a message of hope and determination, asserting that with unity, strategic action, and effective use of available resources, Northern Nigeria can overcome insecurity and reclaim its role as a stable, productive, and influential region within the federation.
