A coalition of Arewa leaders in Northern Nigeria has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu, advising him to disregard rumors and criticisms aimed at certain ministers in his cabinet. These elders argue that many of the current ministers have made significant progress in their respective roles, outperforming their predecessors from the All Progressives Congress administration. Dr. Adamu Giwa, the Secretary of the Northern Elders Political Development Group for the North-West, emphasized the importance of recognizing and rewarding these ministers for their accomplishments rather than dismissing them, advocating for stability and continuity in leadership.
The elders highlighted specific successes in key ministries, particularly noting the contributions of Minister of Housing Ahmed Dangiwa, whose leadership has spurred notable advancements in housing policies. Similarly, the group commended Minister of Budget Abubakar Atiku for his dedication to enforcing fiscal discipline and transparent budgetary processes, which they deemed essential for the government’s financial management. Furthermore, they applauded the progress made in national security under the leadership of Minister of State for Defense Mohammed Bello Matawalle, pointing to improvements in the fight against insecurity that have become evident in recent months.
The Northern elders expressed satisfaction with the security measures currently being implemented, particularly through the efforts of Matawalle and General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff. They emphasized the importance of operation ‘Fansar Yamma’ in addressing insecurity across multiple northern states. These operations have reportedly yielded significant outcomes, including the elimination of notorious bandit leaders in regions like Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina, which they attribute to the federal government’s political will and effective coordination among security forces. The coalition believes that replacing successful cabinet members would undermine leadership development and create instability.
In their statement, the elders condemned the ongoing propaganda and misinformation campaigns spearheaded by some opposition groups aimed at disparaging the government’s efforts. They stressed the detrimental impact such actions could have on public perception and the morale of the security forces engaged in combating crime and banditry in the North-West. By citing the achievements of the military in recent operations, the elders made a case for continuity in leadership, urging Tinubu to stand firm against these opposing narratives.
Despite recognizing the challenges faced by the government, the Northern elders maintained their belief in the ability of Tinubu’s administration to deliver on its promises. They argued that the ongoing military operations, coupled with adequate support for security agencies, could continue to yield favorable outcomes in restoring peace and stability in the region. They urged the president to not only maintain but also intensify efforts to support the military, reinforcing the necessity of a robust and united front against criminal elements.
In conclusion, the Arewa leaders conveyed a strong message of solidarity with President Tinubu and his cabinet, encouraging him to focus on progress and development rather than being swayed by critics. Their affirmation of the ministers’ performances, particularly in housing, budget management, and defense, serves as a call for the administration to build on these successes for the betterment of the country. They remain hopeful that with sustained efforts and a strategic approach, Nigeria can overcome its current challenges, particularly in terms of security and governance, leading to a more prosperous future for all citizens.
