By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – THE Northern Elders Forum, NEF, Wednesday, appointed a new Spokesperson, Prof Abubakar Jika Jiddere.

The appointment, approved by the Convener and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Prof Ango Abdullahi (Magajin Rafin Zazzau), recognizes Prof Jiddere’s competence and dedication to the cause of the North as contained in a statement by the Chairman of NEF’s Management Board, Air Marshall, Al-amin Daggash (Rtd), where the Forum described Prof Jiddere as a distinguished academic with a track record of excellence and commitment.

Prof Jiddere replaces Abdul-Azeez Suleiman who now works as Director NGOs and CSOs for the Northern Elders Forum.

The Forum also maintained that its role remains as a non-partisan organization focused on advocating for the interests of Northern Nigeria while promoting unity and development in collaboration with other regions of the country.

The Forum also congratulated Prof Jiddere on his appointment and wished him success in the discharge of his duties.

Meanwhile,the statement read in part, “About Professor Jiddere: Born in 1965 in Jalingo, Taraba State, Professor Jiddere has an impressive academic and professional background: Primary Education: Muhammadu Nya Primary School, Jalingo; Secondary Education: Marmara Government Secondary School, Wukari (1979–1984). 

“Tertiary Education: College of Preliminary Studies, Yola (1984–1986); B.Sc. in Political Science, Bayero University, Kano (1986–1989); M.Sc. in International Relations and Strategic Studies, University of Jos (1990–1993); Ph.D. in Political Science, Bayero University, Kano. 

“Professional Experience: Joined the Department of Political Science at Bayero University in 1993 as an Assistant Lecturer and is now a Professor of International Relations; Professor Jiddere also served the nation during his National Youth Service at the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu (1989–1990).”

In his acceptance speech, Professor Jiddere, expressed gratitude for the appointment and reaffirmed his commitment to the goals of the Northern Elders Forum.

He said: “I wish to state that I have humbly accepted my new appointment and responsibility as the spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum. 

“The Forum is a non-partisan organization dedicated to articulating the collective interests of Northern Nigeria while fostering unity and national development across the country. I pray for Allah’s guidance and protection throughout my tenure and beyond.”