Northern leaders unveiled initiative to tackle security, underdevelopment issues

SAWABIYANEWS NIG.

YAR'KARKARA

Northern leaders unveiled initiative to tackle security, underdevelopment issues

Prominent northern leaders gathered at the historic Arewa House in Kaduna to unveil the Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative.

The event brought together retired generals, former Governors,Religious and Traditional rulers,civil society actors, women,youth groups, national and international development experts, with various speakers expressing deep concerns about the state of sharp division that has caused the north major setback in recent years.

The initiative aims to achieve unity in the region, tackle insecurity and socio-economic challenges, and foster inclusive development.

Former Governor of Sokoto State and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Alhaji Attahiru Bafarawa, declared that peace, unity, and development are attainable goals for Northern Nigeria. He emphasized that the movement is non-political and has no intention of transforming into a political party or aligning with any group.

Bafarawa stated that the North must rise above its divisions and take responsibility for its future. He painted a grim picture of the North’s current state, citing persistent insecurity, youth unemployment, erosion of values, and widespread poverty. However, he expressed optimism, saying, “Let the world see a new narrative emerging from our region – one that tells of courage, resilience, and transformation… Yes, peace is possible. Yes, unity is achievable. And yes, development is within our reach.”

Unveiling the initiative, Chairman of the occasion, Gen. Jon Temlong, described it as a turning point in Northern Nigeria’s pursuit of peace and progress. He emphasized that the initiative represents a collective voice of a region determined to overcome its challenges and forge a path towards peace, unity, and development. Gen. Temlong stated that the initiative reflects the values that define the North, including brotherhood, justice, and unity.

Director-General of the movement, Dr. Abdullahi Idris, advised stakeholders to adopt a long-term perspective in addressing the region’s problems. He noted that transformation is achievable with patience, coordination, and sustained commitment. Dr. Idriss explained that the initiative is founded on three core pillars: peacebuilding, regional unity, and sustainable development.

Published by KarkaraReports

SAWABIYA informing the people....