ACF @25: Wazirin Dutse calls for unity, security, progress in Northern Nigeria

KADUNA — The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) celebrated its Silver Jubilee on Saturday, 22nd November 2025, in Kaduna, with the Wazirin Dutse and Chairman of the ACF Board of Trustees, Alhaji Bashir M. Dalhatu, calling for unity, national cohesion, and urgent action on security challenges across Northern Nigeria.

In a keynote address, Alhaji Dalhatu welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Right Honorable Abbas Tajjudeen, state governors, lawmakers, traditional rulers, and other distinguished guests from across Nigeria. He also paid tribute to prominent figures in attendance, including former Vice Presidents Namadi Sambo and Atiku Abubakar, industrialist Alhaji Abdulsamad Rabiu, and royal leaders such as the Sultan of Sokoto and the Ooni of Ife.

Reflecting on the founding of the ACF in March 2000, Dalhatu highlighted that the organization was established to address growing intercommunal violence, insecurity, and social challenges in Northern Nigeria. He noted that several Northern political associations of the time merged to form the ACF, creating a unified platform to represent the region’s interests and promote dialogue, peace, and cohesion.

“Our gathering today celebrates not only 25 years of the ACF but also the enduring spirit of Northern unity and the commitment of its leaders to dialogue, consultation, and national progress,” he said.

Dalhatu also addressed the current security situation in Northern Nigeria, citing recent high-profile attacks, including the gruesome killing of a Brigadier General, abductions of schoolchildren in Kebbi and Niger states, and rising insurgency across multiple regions. He urged authorities to intensify efforts to curb violence, ensure the safety of citizens, and restore public confidence in the nation’s security system.

The Wazirin Dutse praised Northern leaders, lawmakers, and members of the executive for their service and encouraged continued engagement with the ACF to address regional concerns and advance national development. He also commended collaboration with Southern socio-cultural organizations such as Afenifere, Ohaneze Ndigbo, and PANDEF, describing their participation as a sign of growing goodwill, partnership, and unity across Nigeria’s diverse regions.

“Our diversity is our strength, and our collective presence today demonstrates a shared vision for a united, strong, and prosperous Nigeria,” Dalhatu said. He added that the Silver Jubilee should serve as a catalyst for renewed dialogue, national cohesion, and sustainable development.

The event underscored the ACF’s ongoing role as a platform for consultation, advocacy, and bridge-building, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and national solidarity in addressing the challenges facing Nigeria.

Dalhatu concluded his speech by calling for sustained unity and dialogue, stressing that the ACF will continue to champion Northern interests while promoting the broader goal of a strong and indivisible Nigeria.

“Long live the ACF! Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!” he declared.

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