By Abubakar Yunusa
Former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, Prince Adewole Adebayo, has called on the Arewa Consultative Forum and other regional organisations to use their moral authority to promote national unity, strengthen governance, and address Nigeria’s deepening challenges.
Adebayo made the appeal during a courtesy visit to the ACF Secretariat in Abuja, where he commended the Forum for its enduring leadership and role in guiding the nation through critical periods.
He described the ACF as a “fallback institution” that has remained steadfast in providing direction when the nation needed it most, saying his visit was not politically motivated but part of wider consultations with patriotic stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.
Adebayo said ,“Northern Nigeria is not for Northerners alone; it is the crown jewel of the Nigerian stat.There’s no reverse gear in the vehicle of Nigeria—it’s a train moving forward.”
The former SDP standard-bearer lamented what he called “episodic governance,” where administrations fail to sustain development plans initiated by their predecessors.
“In the 1960–1965 National Development Plan, whichever party came into government continued with the plan. Today, even roads designed decades ago remain unbuilt. Our politics has become every man for himself,” he observed.
He urged the ACF and similar regional bodies—including the Northern Elders Forum, Afenifere, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, the Middle Belt Forum, and the South-South Forum—to rebuild trust and foster national cohesion through dialogue rather than division.
“If we understand the North well in politics, and if the North understands us, we will have solved most of Nigeria’s problems. Religion should not determine our humanity or opportunities,” he stated.
Adebayo also called for greater youth inclusion in leadership, pledging to promote a governance culture rooted in accountability and service.
“We love this country too. The politics we will do will leave no one behind; it won’t be based on origin but on integrity,” he added.
Responding, Chairman of the ACF Board of Trustees, Alhaji Bashir Mohammed Dalhatu, welcomed Adebayo and his delegation, praising his passion for unity and reform.
“Your name has gone far and wide, and your desire for nation-building is well known,” Dalhatu said. “We are first and foremost Nigerians, and then Northern Nigerians.”
He reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to engaging with national leaders to address issues such as insecurity, unemployment, and the rising number of out-of-school children.
Dalhatu also disclosed that the ACF would celebrate its 25th anniversary in Kaduna and invited Adebayo to participate in discussions on strengthening national unity.
“We are open and transparent and want to consolidate brotherhood across Nigeria. God bless you and God bless Nigeria,” he concluded.
