Revisit Sardauna’s principles to address North’s challenges – Gov Yahaya

Gombe State Governor and Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF), Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, has said there is need to revisit the principles of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, Premier of Northern Region and Sardauna of Sokoto, in order to address the disconnect between the government and the people of the North.

Speaking at the 10th Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture held in Maiduguri, Borno State, Governor Yahaya said northern leaders must walk the talk if they truly want to address the common issues confronting the region and bring it back to the forefront as envisioned by the late Sardauna.

He added that leaders must revisit the principles and seek practical solutions to the challenges faced by Northern Nigeria decisively with unity, determination and effective governance.

While outlining the northern governors’ strategic roadmap for addressing the root causes of underdevelopment in the region, Governor Yahaya emphasised the role of good governance as a potent antidote to security challenges.

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The governor stressed the importance of prioritising citizens’ well-being through access to quality education, healthcare and economic opportunities, underlining the principles of equity, fairness, justice and inclusivity.

Yahaya stressed the importance of drawing inspiration from the Sardauna era in addressing contemporary challenges, particularly the prevalent insecurity, including cattle rustling, kidnapping and banditry.

The governor advocated collaborative efforts across state lines by encouraging partnerships, intelligence sharing, and resource collaboration to combat criminal elements threatening peace and stability.