President Bola Tinubu, represented by House Speaker Tajuddeen Abbas, at  the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna,  reiterated his administration’s dedication to tackling terrorism and banditry in Northern Nigeria, assuring that no region will be left to suffer while the government acts.

Acknowledging the complexity of the security challenges, Tinubu stressed the urgency of restoring safety and social cohesion, alongside reversing the region’s economic decline. He cited upcoming oil production from the Kolmani fields and other initiatives as key drivers for northern prosperity.

Describing the North as facing a “corrosion of security, collapse of communal ethics, and distortion of moral compass,” the President emphasised that national progress hinges on the stability of all regions. He lauded the ACF as a moral and intellectual guide for the North, urging leaders to embrace selflessness, accountability, and collective responsibility.

Key interventions highlighted include accelerated road, rail, and river transport projects, with the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Superhighway set for commissioning. Tinubu also commended the proposed ACF Endowment Fund for its focus on girl-child education, youth skills development, and peacebuilding initiatives.

Former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon, speaking via former Vice-President Mohammed Sambo, stressed that unity, peace, and harmony are vital for development, warning that extremists exploit division. ACF Board Chairman Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu highlighted ongoing threats, including repeated attacks, abductions, and school closures, urging stronger collaboration among traditional leaders, governors, and security agencies.

Kaduna Governor Uba Sani, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, presented the Kaduna Peace Model, which integrates governance, security, infrastructure, and environmental reforms. Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin affirmed President Tinubu’s consistent support for northern development and called for regional leaders to leverage this support to address insecurity and drive economic growth.

Concluding, Tinubu urged the North to rebuild unity, trust, and social cohesion, noting that these pillars are essential for reclaiming stability, stimulating economic growth, and sustaining the region’s role in Nigeria’s collective progress.