—Says Agriculture, Security, and Accountability Must Shape Region’s Future

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Former Chief of Army Staff and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Republic of Benin, Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd), has called on the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) to play a more strategic role in shaping Northern Nigeria’s political, economic, and security future as the Forum marks its 25th anniversary.

In a goodwill message delivered at the ACF’s Silver Jubilee celebration in Kaduna, Buratai described the Forum as a key pillar that has promoted unity, dialogue, and inclusive leadership across the North for 25 years. He noted that the anniversary offers an opportunity to reflect and set a bold new agenda for the region.

Commending the legacy of Northern statesmen and the ACF’s role in defending regional interests, Buratai emphasized that political neutrality should not equate to passivity. He urged the Forum to champion a coherent, homegrown development strategy for the next generation.

Northern Nigeria Needs a Clear Agenda

Buratai stressed that the North must urgently develop a unified strategy focused on security, good governance, education, and economic growth. He cautioned against overreliance on the Federal Government, noting that many challenges require regional solutions and state-level accountability.

“The ACF’s role must evolve to actively engage state governments and promote accountability to our people,” he said.

Agriculture as the North’s Lifeline

Highlighting persistent food insecurity in a region endowed with vast arable land, Buratai called it “a profound paradox.” He argued that prioritizing political projects over agricultural transformation is indefensible and stressed that agriculture is Northern Nigeria’s most strategic path to economic revival, job creation, and long-term security.

“By supporting large-scale modern farming and engaging youth in agribusiness, the North can conquer hunger, curb inflation, and transform its youth from a security challenge into an engine of prosperity,” he said.

ACF Charged to Lead Next Era of Development

Looking ahead, Buratai urged the ACF to become the “primary architect” of Northern prosperity through visionary leadership, long-term planning, and integrity in public institutions. He commended the launch of the ACF Endowment Fund as a key step toward strengthening the Forum’s capacity to champion reforms, mentor emerging leaders, and drive strategic development.

Calls for Stronger National Integration

Buratai emphasized that Northern development cannot be separated from national stability. He urged ACF to advocate for mutual prosperity across Nigeria, calling on Northern state governors to protect the safety and economic rights of Southern Nigerians residing in the region. He stressed that reciprocal assurances are essential for genuine national unity.

“It is both a moral duty and an economic imperative,” he said, adding that the North must champion good governance, justice, and equitable representation at the national level, regardless of which region holds political power.

Honouring Founding Fathers

Concluding his message, Buratai encouraged contemporary leaders to draw inspiration from Sir Ahmadu Bello and other founding fathers of Northern Nigeria, committing to build “a more just, secure, and united Nigeria for all.” He extended his best wishes to the ACF and congratulated the Forum on reaching its Silver Jubilee milestone.