President Bola Tinubu has again raised alarm over the escalating insecurity across Nigeria, describing it as the country’s most troubling challenge, particularly for the Northern region. He said the nation must urgently rebuild trust, strengthen unity, and restore safety in communities struggling with violence.
Tinubu delivered the message on Saturday in Kaduna through the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, during the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the unveiling of its Endowment Fund.
Security Breakdown Threatens Education and Economy
The president stressed that Nigeria cannot recover economically or socially until the security situation improves. According to him, insecurity in the North has triggered widespread economic decline, destroyed livelihoods, and worsened educational setbacks.
“Nothing troubles me more gravely than the security crisis bedevilling Nigeria, especially Northern Nigeria,” Tinubu stated. “We cannot prosper when one limb of the national body is paralysed.”
FG Pledges Decisive Action Against Terrorists and Bandits
Tinubu acknowledged that his administration inherited a complex web of security problems. Nevertheless, he assured citizens that the government is confronting these threats with urgency and unwavering determination.
He vowed to dismantle terrorist and bandit networks operating across the North while reversing the region’s economic stagnation. Furthermore, Tinubu expressed confidence that Northern Nigeria’s economic prospects would improve, noting that he looks forward to crude oil lifting from the Kolmani and other emerging oil fields in the region.
Infrastructure Projects Fast-Tracked for Completion
Tinubu also highlighted several major projects being accelerated, including the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Superhighway, which he said will boost connectivity and regional development once completed.
Leaders Must Speak Truth and Protect the Vulnerable
The president urged Northern leaders to confront the region’s realities with honesty and courage. He warned that progress will remain impossible if leaders ignore the suffering of vulnerable communities.
“We fail the day we sleep comfortably while millions sleep with empty bellies, the day fear becomes a permanent companion for travellers,” he said.
Celebrating 25 Years of ACF’s Advocacy
Tinubu commended the ACF for serving as the moral backbone of Northern Nigeria for a quarter of a century. He praised the forum for defending dignity, fairness, and equality for millions.
He described its Silver Jubilee as a testament to courage, advocacy and principled leadership, urging leaders across all sectors to recommit to the values that shaped the organisation’s founding.
