Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has renewed his call for collective action to address the pressing challenges facing Northern Nigeria, particularly insecurity, underdevelopment, and economic stagnation. Speaking at the Government House in Gombe while hosting the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Governor Yahaya stressed the need for unity beyond ethno-religious and political divides to foster sustainable progress.
The ACF delegation, led by its Board of Trustees Chairman, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, engaged in discussions on regional development and the Forum’s ongoing initiatives to strengthen its mandate. Governor Yahaya, who also chairs the Northern States Governors’ Forum, reaffirmed the commitment of Northern leaders to social cohesion, economic empowerment, and security enhancement.
Highlighting the historical bonds of Northern unity, the governor emphasized that the legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto, remains a guiding principle. He assured that despite global economic hardships, Northern leaders are implementing policies aimed at revitalizing the region’s economy and tackling security threats.
Governor Yahaya also pledged the support of the Northern Governors’ Forum for the ACF’s upcoming 25th-anniversary celebrations, recognizing the Forum’s role in championing Northern interests. On tax reform, he clarified that legal frameworks are periodically reviewed to align with economic realities, ensuring that all regions in Nigeria can compete fairly in national development.
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In his remarks, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu expressed appreciation for Governor Yahaya’s leadership in fostering regional cooperation, while ACF Chairman Mamman Mike Osman called for sustained political backing for the Forum’s initiatives. The ACF leadership also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for establishing development commissions for the North-West and North-Central regions, describing them as potential catalysts for accelerated progress.
“The newly created Federal Commissions, if managed proactively, can restore the North’s past glory and drive sustainable development,” Osman stated.
Governor Yahaya’s emphasis on unity and proactive governance reflects a broader commitment among Northern leaders to address the region’s challenges and create a path toward lasting progress.
