Kaduna, Nigeria — Elders from Nigeria’s northern region gathered Thursday under the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) to address the mounting challenges afflicting their communities, including rising insecurity and a series of devastating events that have claimed the lives of notable leaders and citizens alike. The meeting came at a pivotal moment, highlighting the urgent need for unity and proactive engagement amid ongoing crises.
During the 78th National Executive Council meeting, ACF Chairman Chief Mamman Mike Osuman expressed sorrow over the loss of several influential figures, including former President Muhammadu Buhari and ex-Chief Justice of Nigeria Mohammed Lawal Uwais. He also noted the passing of Chief Audu Ogbeh, a former ACF chairman, philanthropic leader Alhaji Aminu Dantata, and esteemed educator Professor Jubril Aminu. Their deaths serve as a painful reminder of the region’s bereavement.
Osuman underscored that the tragedies faced by the North extend beyond the prominent figures, affecting everyday citizens due to rampant violence, floods, and road accidents. “Our collective wounds are deep,” he stated, urging attendees to reflect on the weight of their grief and to maintain prayers in these difficult times. He advocated for vigilance and a commitment to addressing the underlying issues contributing to such loss.
In his address, Osuman warned against complacency, stating that the pervasive dangers of crime and environmental calamities have plunged families and communities into hardship. He emphasized the necessity for a unified front, urging northern Nigerians to stand against deceit and misinformation. “We cannot afford to be passive during these trying times,” he declared, reinforcing the call for an unwavering commitment to both regional solidarity and national cohesion.
Despite the serious undertones, the forum remains focused on its upcoming 25th anniversary celebrations scheduled for October. Osuman reassured participants that various committees are diligently preparing for an event that will highlight the forum’s resilience and achievements over the years.
The chairman reaffirmed the ACF’s non-partisan stance, making it clear that while its members may hold individual political views, the organization remains committed to serving the northern community as a whole. “Our duty is to the people of the North and to a united Nigeria,” he emphasized.
The organization plans to open discussions with like-minded groups, such as the Forum for National Restoration, indicating an openness to collaboration in addressing shared challenges. The agenda for the meeting also includes addressing pressing issues such as security, economic conditions, youth development, and the overall state of the nation, culminating in a communiqué for the public.
Osuman took a moment to commend the resilience of attendees who made it to the meeting despite facing personal and communal adversities. He encouraged members to continue their dedicated service to the northern region, underscoring the importance of brotherhood, transparency, and adherence to the rule of law.
“Let this assembly symbolize our commitment to progress and unity,” he added, inspiring those present to cultivate hope and action in the face of ongoing challenges.