….urges Northern Leaders to Address Poverty and Insecurity for Nigeria’s Progress
Cardinal John Onaiyekan, Archbishop Emeritus of Abuja, emphasized that Nigeria’s progress is tied to the well-being of the northern region, stating, “If the north does not progress, neither can Nigeria.”
Speaking with the League of Northern Democrats, he urged northern leaders to address critical issues like poverty and insecurity, which heavily impact the region. Onaiyekan also called for unity across regions and faiths to improve governance and bring stability nationwide.
He expressed disappointment with the current conditions in northern Nigeria, noting that the area ranks poorly in governance and living standards.
Addressing regional elites, he encouraged them to hold political leaders accountable, particularly regarding high numbers of out-of-school children.
He stressed that the nation’s success depends on a collective interest in the north’s progress, highlighting it as a matter of “enlightened self-interest” for all Nigerians.
