Visionary leaders needed to tackle challenges –ACPF

From Femi Oyelola, Kaduna

The National Publicity Secretary of the Arewa Consultative Progressive Forum (ACPF), Hon. Ahmed Tijjani Mustapha, has said that, given the hardship faced in the country, there is a need for visionary leaders to tackle the root causes.
Hon. Tijjani stated this in a statement released after the group’s courtesy visit to the Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, recently.
According to him, Nigerians are suffering and it will take the intervention of a visionary leader to provide a solution to the challenges faced.
Given this, he extended an arm of support, saying that the group is fully mobilised to support good governance, and democratic norms to the public through their organised structures, social media groups and other means.
“The challenge the country is facing today is temporal based on our outstanding, Nigeria needs leaders with your type of Leadership Qualities and Zeal. Without sentiments, Nigeria needs a visionary leader at a time like this.
“We thank the leadership of the National Assembly for addressing the growing needs of women, youths, Orphans/Vulnerable children (OVC) with compassionate care through their support for the government. The complex needs require a multi-sector and innovative approach.
“The National Assembly is the Messiah God is using for the poor and less privileged in the society especially during this hard time due to security challenges and fuel subsidy removal.
“Permit me to list some of our primary challenges in carrying out our assignment which are: Farming input and pieces of equipment, Storage facilities, food processing machines, modern agricultural marketing tools, consumables for skill acquisition and resource persons, customize and un-customize uniforms and survenaires logistics for awareness activities, programs, projects, training etc.
“We major in the agricultural value chain (Empowerment and Food security). Input, production, storage, processing, marketing. This will help in providing a means of livelihood to the Society from the various business opportunities in which they will have a comparative advantage. Productivity and economic growth will be strengthened. It will help in bringing back the middle class.
While assuring the Deputy Speaker of their support towards National progress, they requested that the Group be availed of the platform and other necessities to serve the nation better.
“As patriotic Nigerians, we are ready to work for the success of this Government. We will be grateful if you will pencil AREWA Consultative PROGRESSIVE FORUM (ACPF) down for any slightest opportunity that comes your way as this will motivate and encourage members to work harder.
“Because of the above kindly use your good office to introduce the group to the following ministers for empowerment and a slot for members to serve as aids and committee members. Ministers of Agriculture, Marine and Blue economy, FCT, Trade and industry, Gas, and any other ministers, Head of agency at your discretion.
As a reward for his love and support to humanity, the Group endorsed the Deputy Speaker, Benjamin Kalu as their patron.
“We endorse you as our patron because of your untiring support and love for the North, (AREWA) your loyalty to the speaker and Humanity. You have a proven record of honesty, truth and personal devotion to our great country.
“Let us continue with what is just and right, let us continue with what is fair and righteous. Long live ACPF.
The Arewa Consultative Progressive Forum (ACPF) delegation was represented by Alh Jibrin Madoubi, The National Chairman of Arewa Amb Fatima Adam’s, the National Woman Leader, Hon Mohammed Auwal Yunusa, the Deputy National Chairman and a host of others.