During the recent ACF meetings, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of accountability in tackling the education, poverty, and Infrastructure challenges faced in northern Nigeria. He made it clear that he expects all levels of government to work together efficiently to address these urgent issues. President Tinubu’s strong stance signals a renewed commitment to improving the lives of the people in the region. At a significant meeting held with the leadership of the powerful Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on May 30, 2024, this bold statement was made.
In his speech to the northern socio-political organization, Tinubu thanked his cabinet members for their hard work, yet he made it clear that he will not hesitate to dismiss any of them if he believes they are not serving the Nigerian people effectively. The President’s unwavering determination to fulfill his campaign pledges and promote transparency in his government is clearly evident in this firm position. In a crucial meeting, Tinubu urged the Arewa leaders to gather the state governors and encourage them to show greater empathy towards the demands of the people in their respective regions.
He emphasized the crucial role of education in fighting poverty.
Also, he stressed the significance of efficient leadership across different levels, raising concerns about the effectiveness of the 774 local government areas in the nation. Tinubu raised important questions about the effectiveness of the 774 local government areas in Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of accountability and coordination among all levels of government, including state and federal. The performance of these local governments in addressing the needs of Nigerians and their ability to work together with higher levels of government are crucial points to consider.
While he spoke, the President expressed his deep concerns in the high number of children not attending school in the country, stating that the current situation is not up to acceptable standards. He emphasized the crucial role of Education in fighting Poverty and called for a united effort to enhance Nigeria’s education sector, which he labelled as the foundation of the nation’s Economy. Tinubu recognized the poor state of infrastructure and the prevalent poverty in northern Nigeria, stating that action needs to be taken to improve the situation.
The nation should come together in solidarity for success.
So as to ensure that the topics discussed in the meeting are not forgotten, the President instructed the creation of a committee headed by George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Furthermore, Tinubu encouraged the nation to come together in solidarity and to keep backing his administration as it works to address the enduring issues facing the people. He highlighted the power of Nigeria’s varied population and unity. Established in 2000, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) is a prominent organization comprising political and cultural figures from Northern Nigeria.
Arewa, meaning Northern in Hausa, represents the group’s focus on issues specific to the region. Emerging after the disbandment of the Northern People’s Congress following the 1966 coup, the ACF wields significant influence in the political sphere. The ties to the Arewa People’s Congress (APC), a militant organization established to safeguard the interests of the Hausa-Fulani community in the northern region. Despite this affiliation, the forum upholds a dedication to upholding democratic principles outlined in the federal constitution. On March 7, 2000, leaders from the North gathered in Kaduna at the invitation of Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammadu Maccido, to form a forum.
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Additionally, the goal was to promote collaboration among elected officials in order to drive development in the Arewa region under democratic principles. General Yakubu Gowon, a former head of state, agreed to lead the Board of Patrons of the forum in September 2000. The forum then appointed Alhaji Muhammadu Dikko Yusufu, a retired Inspector General of the Nigerian Police, as its chairman. In a surprising move that defied stereotypes, the ACF selected Sunday Awoniyi, a Yoruba Christian, to serve as chairman of the board of trustees in 2000. He remained in this role until his passing in November 2007, showcasing the organization’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.
