President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday said insecurity remains his greatest concern in Nigeria, warning that without rebuilding trust, security problems will continue, the economy will suffer, and the education sector will struggle.
Speaking at the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and the launch of its Endowment Fund in Kaduna, the President—represented by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Abbas Tajudeen—delivered an address titled “A Generation Summoned by a Crisis.”
Tinubu said that although his government inherited the nation’s security challenges, he is working urgently to address them.
He stated that nothing worries him more than the security crisis affecting Nigeria, especially the North, adding that trouble in one region holds back the entire country. He described the situation as complex and deeply rooted, but assured that his administration is tackling it with serious determination.
The President also stressed that the North needs sincere and courageous voices more than ever. He admitted mistakes have been made, but said the region cannot be declared a failure unless people abandon their duty to care for one another. He warned that the nation fails the moment people become comfortable while millions are hungry and travellers live in constant fear.
Tinubu insisted that hope is not lost, noting that years of dysfunction strained unity, but the diversity of those gathered at the event shows a strong resolve to resist division.
Speaking about the security situation in the North, he said his administration is not only focused on eliminating terrorists and bandits but also committed to reversing economic decline in the region.
Expressing confidence in the North’s potential, he said he looks forward to when crude oil from Kolmani and other Northern fields will begin to roll out. He added that this is why his government is fast-tracking major road, rail, and river transport projects in the region, especially the Abuja–Kaduna–Kano Superhighway, which will be inaugurated in Kano “in the coming months.”
Tinubu explained that every generation faces its own unique challenge. While earlier generations fought colonial rule or built democratic structures, he said the current generation is confronted with serious threats to security, community values, and the moral foundation that once held Northern communities together.
He added that the region is experiencing one of its toughest periods, with weakened social ethics and rising instability, but said this gathering was a moment of reflection and unity.
Tinubu praised the ACF for being a consistent moral voice and a stabilising force in the North for 25 years. He commended the forum for bringing together patriots, intellectuals, and selfless leaders who have ensured the region remains central to national dialogue.
He said the Silver Jubilee marks 25 years of courage, advocacy, and principled service by some of the North’s most respected voices.
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