Tinubu Reaffirms Commitment to Defeat Insecurity in Northern Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated his administration’s firm commitment to ending banditry and terrorism in Northern Nigeria, declaring that no community will be left to “bleed in silence” during his tenure.

Addressing guests at the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum in Kaduna, the President—represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajuddeen Abbas—said his government met a complex and entrenched security challenge but is tackling it with renewed urgency.

Tinubu noted that Nigeria cannot move forward while an entire region remains under constant threat, stressing that the peace and economic stability of the North are essential to the nation’s progress.

He commended the ACF for a quarter century of service as a guiding voice for the North, describing the organisation as a platform of patriots, mediators and thought leaders who have consistently defended the interests of millions.

The President acknowledged the scale of insecurity confronting the region, citing eroded safety structures, weakening communal values and strained moral foundations, but stressed that the North remains resilient.

He cautioned that failure will only occur if leaders fail to stand up for one another, adding that leadership becomes meaningless when leaders sleep comfortably while citizens live in fear or go to bed hungry.

Tinubu expressed confidence that the region is approaching an economic revival with the expected commencement of crude oil operations from the Kolmani fields and other emerging opportunities.

He highlighted ongoing federal projects such as upgraded rail, road and water transport systems, and announced that the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Superhighway will be completed and inaugurated in Kano in the coming months.

The President also praised the proposed ACF Endowment Fund, describing it as a strategic initiative aimed at advancing girl-child education, youth empowerment, conflict resolution and peacebuilding.

He called on Northern political leaders, traditional rulers and civil society groups to uphold the founding values of the ACF—courage, justice, fairness and shared responsibility—emphasising that unity remains the region’s greatest asset.

“With unity, there is no challenge the North cannot overcome,” he said.

Barau Jibrin: North Can Defeat Insecurity

Deputy Senate President Barau Jibrin, speaking on behalf of the Senate President, said the North can triumph over its security challenges if leaders harmonise their efforts and utilise available resources strategically.

He congratulated the ACF on its Silver Jubilee and paid tribute to its founding members whose vision, he said, laid the foundation for a strong and resilient Northern region.

Barau acknowledged that insecurity persists but reminded the audience that the region has a long history of endurance. He added that similar threats are present across West Africa, making coordinated action crucial.

He stressed that Northern leaders at the federal level, including himself and the Speaker, are ready to work closely with state governments and community institutions to address the root causes of insecurity.