Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has rolled out a series of major activities to celebrate its 25th anniversary, marking what it described as a “significant milestone in the region’s pursuit of unity, peace, and development.”
The chairman of the ACF Board of Trustees, Alhaji Bashir Dalhatu, announced this while addressing journalists on the organisation’s legacy and plans for the commemorative events.
He paid glowing tribute to the Forum’s founding fathers both living and deceased who, he said, laid the foundation for what has grown into Northern Nigeria’s foremost socio-cultural advocacy organisation.
Dalhatu noted that for 25 years, ACF has remained consistent in championing the interests of Northern Nigeria and promoting peaceful coexistence across the country.
According to him, established in 2000, the ACF has been at the forefront of conversations on governance, security, human rights, and economic development in the region.
Dalhatu said the Forum’s commitment to nation-building has earned it widespread respect among traditional institutions, political leaders, and civil society groups.
He explained that the anniversary activities were designed not only to celebrate past achievements but also to chart fresh pathways for development.
According to him, the commemorative programmes reflect ACF’s resolve to continue serving as a bridge between communities and policymakers.
The events began with a Pre-Anniversary Golf Tournament held from 20th to 22nd November at the Kaduna Golf Club under the chairmanship of former Senate President, Senator David Mark. Dalhatu said the tournament was introduced to engage the elite class and deepen their involvement in ACF activities.
Preparations also included a football tournament that started on 31st October across zonal levels, with the finals scheduled for Thursday, 20th November at the Ranchers Bees Stadium in Kaduna. The grand finale will be chaired by the Chairman of the Nigeria Football Federation, with Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, as Special Guest of Honour.
Dalhatu emphasised that the football event is central to the Forum’s mission to engage young people, provide meaningful participation opportunities, and discover budding talents across Northern Nigeria, as the youth inclusion remains a core priority for ACF.
“Day One of the anniversary will feature two major roundtable discussions, drawing dignitaries from within and outside Nigeria. The first session, themed Tourism for Security, will be chaired by Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State, with the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, as Special Guest of Honour. Speakers include the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and Minister of Tourism, Hanatu Musawa.
“A second roundtable titled Elevating the Voices of Women and Youth in the Socioeconomic and Political Transformation of Northern Nigeria will be chaired by the UN Deputy Secretary General, Dr. Amina Mohammed. Leading academics, policymakers and civil society advocates are lined up as panelists and rapporteurs.
“The day will also feature an interactive mentorship session focusing on agriculture, value addition, processing and manufacturing, as well as digital innovation. Guest speakers include the Minister of Livestock Development, Engr. Idi Mukhtar Maiha, Engr. Jelani Aliyu, Inyinola Aboyade and NITDA DG, Kashifu Abdullahi.
“A medical outreach coordinated by the General TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation, in partnership with the Tuku & Tukur Foundation, will run from 21st to 23rd November. The outreach will provide free consultations, eye screening, ENT services and health education to participants and neighbouring communities.
“Day Two of the celebration will feature state talent exhibitions and cultural displays, culminating in a grand Dinner and Award Night chaired by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. Vice President Kashim Shettima will serve as Special Guest of Honour, while Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, will be Guest of Honour.
“The award categories include the Arewa Lifetime Achievement Award, Distinguished Service Award and Prize for Excellence. Notable awardees include General T.Y. Danjuma, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, late Alhaji Abdulganiyu Abdulrazaq (SAN), Alhaji Babagana Kingibe, and several former governors, traditional rulers and young achievers.
“The celebrations will culminate on Saturday, 22nd November, with a plenary session and the launch of the ACF Endowment Fund. The session will be chaired by former Vice President Namadi Sambo, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour and Alhaji Aliko Dangote as Guest Speaker” he added.
According to the organisers, the three-day programme, scheduled to hold at Murtala Muhammed Square, Kaduna, will bring together national leaders, policymakers and citizens to discuss the future of Northern Nigeria.
Dalhatu reaffirmed that ACF remains committed to promoting unity, peace and prosperity in the region.
He urged stakeholders to continue supporting the Forum’s efforts toward addressing emerging challenges, strengthening social cohesion, and ensuring that the North contributes meaningfully to Nigeria’s overall development.
