A chieftain of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Usman Bugaje, has called for the abolition of the rotational presidency system, arguing that Nigeria needs a more effective leadership model to drive development.

In a recent interview, Bugaje warned that Nigeria is on a dangerous trajectory, citing poor leadership as the root cause of the nation’s decline.

“I would rather be part of a new conversation that starts thinking about what team we require to fix this country,” he said. “Reckless and irresponsible politicians have held power for 25 years, and we are seeing the consequences.”

Bugaje criticized politicians who prioritize regional or ethnic interests over national progress.

“People are talking about their turn. What have they done with those turns? They have destroyed this country,” he stated. “We can’t continue with this kind of conversation.”

He argued that while inclusivity is essential, leadership selection should be based on competence, not ethnicity or regional rotation.

Bugaje acknowledged that no single region has a monopoly on leadership skills, emphasizing the need for a merit-based approach.

“There are competent Nigerians in the South-West, South-East, South-South, North-East, North-West, and North-Central,” he said.

Despite the North’s historical leadership role, he admitted that the region still struggles with education, healthcare, and industrialization, underscoring the need for a new approach to governance.