The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), a prominent socio-political organization representing northern Nigeria, has expressed its concerns about the economic policies under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, blaming these measures for exacerbating the already difficult conditions in the northern region.
The ACF believes that the current government’s economic strategies are deepening the hardships faced by the people of the North and have urged the president to take swift and decisive action to address pressing challenges, including insecurity, education, and economic development in the region.
The forum’s concerns were made public through a communique issued following the National Executive Council meeting held in Kaduna on Wednesday, November 20. The document, signed by Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, strongly criticized the federal government’s approach to economic reform. The forum expressed deep dissatisfaction with how the policies have negatively impacted the lives of the northern populace.
“Despite the severe economic hardship in Arewa, the economic policies being implemented by the current federal administration have only worsened the situation,” the ACF stated. “These policies show a lack of empathy for the grave challenges that the people of the North are enduring. Economic reforms are indeed necessary, but they must not come at the cost of further impoverishing those they are intended to benefit. If this continues, the very people who need these reforms may not survive to see the potential benefits.”
In light of these concerns, the ACF has called for a reassessment of the economic policies being pursued by the federal government. The forum is urging President Tinubu to review the direction of these policies to ensure they are more people-centered and considerate of the dire realities facing the people of northern Nigeria.
The ACF’s meeting also resulted in several key resolutions. Among them was a call for northern governors to adopt a unified and strategic approach to governance, particularly in critical sectors such as security, education, healthcare, skills development, and agriculture. The forum stressed the need for better coordination in policy planning and execution at the regional level to address these foundational issues that are vital for the growth and development of the North.
Additionally, the ACF appealed to the federal government to embrace constructive criticism and suggestions from various stakeholders. This call was made not only in the spirit of democratic principles but also to encourage a more inclusive approach to policy formulation. The forum believes that open dialogue and feedback can significantly improve the effectiveness of government policies and ensure they better serve the needs of the people.
Finally, the ACF called on the northern elite to take on a more active role in countering negative stereotypes and narratives about the North. The forum urged northern leaders from all walks of life to engage in community service and contribute to the region’s development, emphasizing that the future of the North is best shaped by the people of the North themselves.
In conclusion, the Arewa Consultative Forum reiterated that the region’s interests and welfare can only be adequately served through greater self-awareness, unity, and an inclusive approach to governance. The ACF remains committed to advocating for a more prosperous and equitable future for the northern region of Nigeria.
