Nigeria’s former military ruler, General Ibrahim Babangida, has expressed support for a new Northern-focused organisation aimed at strengthening regional unity, advancing development, and supporting national peace.
Speaking at his hilltop residence in Minna, the former leader said Nigeria’s North needs a “coherent and powerful voice” to protect its interests and contribute to the broader unity of the country.
Babangida made these remarks while receiving members of the Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative, a newly established group that aims to bring greater coordination to Northern advocacy and development strategies.
He praised the creation of the group, saying it arrived at a moment of great importance for the region. “We are at a point where unity is essential. The North must speak not with division, but with one voice, in pursuit of both regional development and national harmony,” Babangida noted.
The group is chaired by former Sokoto State governor, Alhaji Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, with Dr Abdullahi Idris as Director General. Babangida commended their leadership credentials, suggesting they were well-positioned to drive the initiative forward.
Bafarawa told journalists following the meeting that the group would be formally launched on 10 July 2025 in Kaduna. He stressed the organisation’s aim to promote peace and democratic values, including tolerance for political opposition.
“No region should be scapegoated for Nigeria’s underdevelopment,” Bafarawa said. “We must find ways to help ourselves and each other. It is not just about helping the government, but about fostering peace and stability for all Nigerians.”
Dr Idris added that the initiative would work to ensure practical steps are taken to address long-standing issues affecting the North, while contributing to the broader goal of national development.
