By Abubakar Yunusa
By Abubakar Yunusa
Dr. Sani Abdullahi Shinkafi, Executive Director of the Patriots for the Advancement of Peace and Social Development, has called on North West governors to prioritize development in education, wealth creation, and social amenities to improve the lives of the people.
Shinkafi criticized the governors for their reliance on organizing peace and security summits, claiming these events have not solved the insecurity issues in the region.
“The problems in the zone require political will and pragmatic actions, not empty rhetoric as obtainable in the past 12 years,” he stated.
Highlighting the region’s vast land mass and significant population, Shinkafi pointed out the North West’s alarming issues, including the highest number of out-of-school children, poorly equipped schools and hospitals, and bad roads.
Shinkafi argued that external organizations like the UNDP cannot solve the region’s insecurity problems alone. He identified root causes such as corruption, poverty, unemployment, illiteracy, poor governance, weak judicial systems, and porous borders.
He said despite receiving substantial federal allocations, the region remains underdeveloped due to mismanagement of funds.
“Illiteracy is a major driver of armed banditry, with many uneducated youths recruited into criminal activities.”
While calling for agricultural investments in the region,Shinkafi urged governors to invest in agro-allied industries to create jobs and improve food security. He highlighted the need for modern farming techniques and support for farmers to increase productivity.
He said insecurity has crippled the region’s economy, with people unable to engage in their livelihoods for fear of kidnappings and attacks. This situation has further impoverished the populace.
Shinkafi also linked corruption to the persistent insecurity, with funds meant for development often diverted for personal gain. He criticized the poor support for security agencies and called for better equipment and staffing.
Porous borders exacerbate the insecurity, with illegal arms and drugs smuggled in. Shinkafi urged better border management to prevent these issues.
Calling for solutions in the region,he advocated for a dual approach to tackling insecurity, involving military intervention and local peace initiatives with traditional rulers and community leaders.
He stressed the need for social amenities in Fulani settlements to support peaceful coexistence.
“Governors must create jobs and revitalize industries to combat unemployment and poverty. Shinkafi also called for a death penalty for armed banditry and related offenses to deter criminal activities.”
