The Chairman, Board of Trustees of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Alhaji Bashir Mohammed Dalhatu, has warned that the worsening insecurity across Northern Nigeria poses a grave threat to national stability, urging leaders at all levels to act decisively to halt the resurgence of violence, mass abductions and terror attacks in the region.
Dalhatu made the remarks in Kaduna over the weekend during the Silver Jubilee celebration of the ACF, an event attended by top political, traditional and business leaders from across the country.
He expressed deep concern over the growing spate of violence, including the recent killing of a Brigadier General by terrorists and the mass abduction of over 200 schoolchildren and teachers in Niger and Kebbi states.
He said the frequency and brutality of recent attacks suggest that insurgents are regaining ground, despite ongoing efforts by security agencies.
The ACF chairman stressed that the government must adopt urgent and extraordinary measures to restore peace, warning that Nigeria cannot afford to allow terrorists, bandits and other criminal networks to dictate the nation’s security climate.
He noted that the closure of dozens of unity schools and the shutdown of boarding facilities in some states reflect the gravity of the situation.
Dalhatu applauded the sacrifices of security agencies but insisted that far more must be done to prevent further deterioration.
He emphasised that the consequences of failing to secure the region “are too frightening to imagine,” especially for a region already struggling with developmental challenges.
Reflecting on the formation of the ACF 25 years ago, Dalhatu recalled that the organisation emerged from a desire to unite various northern socio-political groups under one umbrella to tackle rising intercommunal conflicts, political fragmentation and perceived marginalisation of the North at the time.
He said the merger of three major northern groups, Turaki Committee, Northern Elders’ Forum and the Unity and Development Foundation was a visionary step that strengthened the capacity of the region to speak with one voice and pursue collective interests within a united Nigeria.
The BoT chairman commended President Tinubu, Northern governors, members of the National Assembly, ministers and traditional rulers for their representation at the event, saying their presence underscores the national relevance of the ACF and the enduring significance of northern unity.
Dalhatu also paid tribute to influential friends of the North, including royal fathers and leaders of southern socio-cultural organisations such as Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, PANDEF and BRAC, whose attendance, he said, symbolizes a renewed commitment to cross-regional cooperation and a more united Nigeria.
He urged Nigerians to use the ACF Silver Jubilee as a turning point for deeper dialogue, stronger partnerships and unwavering dedication to building an inclusive and peaceful nation, noting that “in our diversity, we find a common purpose, and in our unity lies the promise of a greater Nigeria.”
