The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has expressed optimism that Nigeria’s insecurity crisis can be overcome by 2026, while urging President Bola Tinubu’s administration to adopt a more coordinated approach in tackling the escalating violence.
At a press briefing in Abuja, NEF spokesperson Prof. Abubakar Jiddere highlighted the devastating impact of banditry, terrorism, and kidnappings on the North’s economy and social life.
He warned that persistent violence has stifled growth and discouraged investment across the region.
Jiddere called on northern governors to enhance collaboration with security agencies and urged the military to intensify operations against violent groups.
He also appealed to prominent northerners to support initiatives aimed at restoring peace and economic vitality.
While acknowledging ongoing military campaigns, Jiddere stressed that defeating insecurity would require a combination of force and diplomacy.
“The government must combine kinetic action with dialogue and other non-violent measures to win lasting peace,” he said.
Reflecting on the North’s past economic prominence, Jiddere did : “In the 60s, 70s, and 80s, northern Nigeria drove the country’s economy.
“Agriculture, industry, and trade thrived. Our groundnut pyramids reached the skies.
“Cotton, livestock, and solid minerals powered industries.”
He added that the region now faces new challenges, including under-investment and insecurity.
He cited former President Umaru Yar’Adua’s non-kinetic approach, which helped resolve the Niger Delta crisis, as a model for combining dialogue with action.
“By the grace of God, the insecurity problem will be a matter of history next year.
“How can northern youths inherit uncertainty when their land holds enough to build a future?
“This summit is about turning that paradox into opportunity and ensuring northern Nigeria steps confidently into a new era of growth.”
The North continues to face violent attacks despite security efforts.
Last week, gunmen killed one man and abducted 18 women and children in Birnin Zarma, Zamfara State.
Residents fleeing bandit attacks in Gummi district drowned when their boat capsized.
In another incident, at least 11 security personnel were killed in an ambush in north-central Nigeria, where farmer-herder conflicts have fueled armed violence.
The Middle Belt, including Benue and Plateau states, has long suffered deadly attacks.
Source – BarristerNG.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
