Atiku Calls for Renewed Focus on Education, Agriculture, Industrialization
From Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on Northern leaders to unite and work towards a common goal of development, as he addressed the 25th anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna on Friday.
Abubakar lamented that despite progress made, the North still lagged behind in development, citing poor education, inadequate healthcare, and lack of industrialization as major challenges.
He emphasized that the 21st century competitive environment would not tolerate complacency, absentee leadership, or lack of direction.
“We have to brace up; we don’t have much time,” Abubakar warned, stressing that the North’s rapidly growing population, projected to reach 300 million by 2030 and 400 million by 2050, required urgent action to address food security, education, and job creation.
The former Vice President recalled the vision of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the premier of Northern Nigeria, who prioritized education, agriculture, and industrialization as key to regional development. Abubakar noted that these priorities remained relevant today, but required renewed focus and commitment.
Abubakar, who initiated the Northern Development Program (NDP) during his tenure, said the program had made strides in education, agriculture, and industry, but much remained to be done.
He urged ACF to rekindle the flame of unity and purpose, warning that division would only benefit external forces seeking to exploit the region’s resources.
“The major issue with our unity is our failure to manage our diversity,” Abubakar said, citing examples of countries like China and India that had successfully harnessed their diversity for development. “Why can’t we do better?”
Abubakar expressed concern over the North’s security challenges, saying insecurity was a major obstacle to development. He called on the Federal Government to address the issue, saying it was crucial for the region’s progress.
The former Vice President also warned against external forces seeking to divide the North, saying: “Their target is our God-given wealth. We have seen the Democratic Republic of Congo, and we must not relent.”
Abubakar urged ACF to resist divisive forces and work towards a united North, saying: “If there is any time for the North to unite, it is now.”
In his speech, Abubakar commended ACF for its 25 years of existence, acknowledging the challenges faced and overcome by the organization. He called on northern leaders to emulate the example of Sir Ahmadu Bello, who was remembered for his vision and selflessness.
“How would we like to be remembered, after we have gone? As people who made the necessary sacrifices for the rest of us? Or as people who seized the opportunities and only buttered their bread?” Abubakar asked.
The ACF chairman, Senator Mohammed Buba, responded, saying the forum would redouble efforts to unite the North and promote development.
The event was attended by several dignitaries, including traditional leaders, politicians, and business leaders from across the North.
