Federal Government Pledges Commitment to Unity, Regional Development – SGF Akume

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its dedication to fostering unity and socio-economic growth across all states in Nigeria. This commitment, according to the government, is reflected in the establishment of regional commissions aimed at accelerating grassroots development throughout the country.

Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), made this statement in a goodwill message at the 11th Annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture and Merit Awards, held in Bauchi on Monday. Akume, represented by his Chief of Staff, Simeon Tyungu, emphasized the importance of regional bodies, highlighting their leadership and wisdom as invaluable assets to both the nation and the northern region.

Akume remarked, “The strength of our nation lies in our diversity and our collective ability to use our resources for the common good. As we gather here in Bauchi for the 11th Annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture and Merit Awards, let us reflect on the significance of this event, which strengthens the bond of unity that ties us as a nation.”

He also pointed out that while this year’s event was held in Bauchi, future gatherings will rotate to other states, including Jigawa. “This rotation is not just symbolic; it is a strategic initiative to foster mutual understanding, cooperation, and national cohesion,” he added.

The SGF honored the founding fathers of Nigeria, including Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Sir Kashim Imam, Alh. Yahaya Gusau, Alh. Shehu Shagari, Mallam Aminu Kano, and others, who advocated for the unity of northern Nigeria.

Akume also reflected on Sir Ahmadu Bello’s pivotal role in promoting national unity as the first premier of Northern Nigeria. He worked diligently to foster development in partnership with other regions and played a key role in forming alliances to strengthen the nation. “Sir Ahmadu Bello recognized the importance of developing the economic potential of northern Nigeria, which led to the establishment of institutions such as the Bank of the North and the Northern Nigeria Development Company (NNDC),” Akume noted.

The SGF went on to explain that the Federal Government is actively pursuing policies designed to unlock the country’s underutilized natural resources, focusing on boosting local production and reducing dependency on imports. Notable progress has been made in agricultural innovation, with local production increasing by 30 percent.

Inuwa Yahaya, Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, reaffirmed the forum’s commitment to addressing the region’s challenges and leveraging its vast resources for accelerated development. He acknowledged issues such as inadequate infrastructure, high unemployment, and persistent poverty but expressed optimism about the region’s potential.

“The challenges facing the North are significant, but as governors, we are determined to confront them. Northern Nigeria is a treasure trove of untapped human and natural resources. By harnessing these, we can drive sustainable development in the region,” he said.

Yahaya further explained the region’s diverse challenges, such as insecurity, which varies across sub-regions. Banditry and kidnapping plague the North-West, while the North-Central faces ethno-religious tensions and the North-East contends with insurgency. These issues, he noted, often stem from competition over resource control.

He stressed the need for region-specific solutions and emphasized that the Northern Governors’ Forum is committed to finding ways to develop the region and create economic opportunities. “To create a prosperous, self-reliant North, we must focus on solutions that align with our collective goals,” he added.

The governor highlighted his 10-year development plan, “DEVAGOM,” which aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He assured attendees that he would advocate for the creation of development plans in states that currently lack one, with this issue becoming a key agenda in the forum’s upcoming meetings.

Yahaya also announced the revitalization and reform of the New Nigeria Development Company, which has been transformed into a profit-driven entity. He pledged that northern governors would invest significantly in the company to foster regional development.

The Governor commended the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation for its continued efforts to honor the late premier’s legacy, especially through the annual lecture series. “I commend the Foundation’s unwavering dedication. Since its establishment in 2009 by the Northern States Governors’ Forum, it has steadfastly upheld the vision and principles of our revered leader,” he said.

In his address, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed emphasized the need for unity in the North to address its challenges, despite the existing divisions within the region. He praised the leadership of Governor Yahaya and his role in strengthening the Governors’ Forum. Governor Mohammed also expressed his admiration for the Foundation’s role in keeping alive the spirit of Sardauna and promoting Northern unity, reinforcing the governors’ collective commitment to regional integration and addressing the North’s challenges.