By Jibrin Hussaini Kundum, Bauchi
The Arewa Youth Advocate for Good Governance has condemned what it described as a coordinated attack on Northern Nigeria through media misrepresentation and federal government policies, calling for an end to the marginalization of the region.
Speaking at a mega press conference, the group’s leader, Comrade Adam M. Abdullahi, said the North has endured deliberate attempts to weaken its identity while suffering from policies that have worsened its socio-economic challenges.
“For too long, the North has been painted as a region of poverty, insecurity, and stagnation”. “But today, we say enough! We refuse to be silent as our region is undermined while other parts of the country enjoy rapid development,” Abdullahi stated.
The youth leader accused the federal government of neglecting the North in key areas such as infrastructure, education, security, and economic development. He argued that despite the region’s vast potential, it has been sidelined in policy decisions.
“The roads in the North are in terrible condition, making transportation and trade difficult”. “Our schools are underfunded, our youth remain unemployed, and insecurity continues to ravage our communities while the government prioritizes projects in the South”, he accused.
Amidst these challenges, Abdullahi praised Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, describing him as a transformational leader committed to changing the narrative of northern governance.
“Unlike many who have remained silent in the face of injustice, Senator Bala Mohammed has been a vocal advocate for northern development”. Through the Kaura Economic Empowerment Program (KEEP), he has empowered thousands of youth and women, ensuring financial support and vocational training,” he said
According to the group, the governor has also made significant strides in education by constructing over 5,000 classrooms, recruiting 3,000 teachers, and doubling scholarship allocations for indigent students.
“His administration has revamped healthcare, ensuring that the Bauchi State Health Insurance Scheme provides affordable medical services to the poor,” Abdullahi added. “This is what true leadership looks like.”
The Arewa Youth Advocate for Good Governance announced plans to hold a town hall meeting in the coming days to discuss strategies for countering media bias and advocating for policies that favor northern development.
“At this town hall, we will bring together traditional rulers, religious leaders, policymakers, business leaders, and youth representatives,” Abdullahi revealed. “We will not stop until the North receives the attention and investment it deserves.”
In a passionate closing remark, he declared that the North would no longer accept misrepresentation and neglect, vowing to continue the fight for fairness.
“The North will not be silenced! The North will not be marginalized! The North will not be misrepresented!” he stated. “We are here, we are strong, and we will not be ignored.”