- The reasons behind the high levels of poverty and insecurity in northern states compared to their southern counterparts
Cardinal John Onayekan, former bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Abuja, has issued a clarion call to the northern elites, urging them to address the pressing economic, political, and security challenges confronting Nigeria’s 19 northern states.
His remarks came during a courtesy visit to Abuja on Tuesday by the League of Northern Democrats (LND), which was led by former Kano State Governor Senator Ibrahim Shekarau.
Cardinal Onayekan praised the LND’s initiative to promote a “northern renaissance,” emphasising the importance of confronting the region’s harsh realities of poverty and insecurity.
He pointed out that these issues are not merely local problems but are deeply intertwined with the overall stability of the nation.
“The current state of northern Nigeria is far from commendable,” he stated. “All indicators of good governance and quality of life reflect a troubling reality. If Nigeria is poor, then the epicentre of that poverty is the north.”
He called on the LND to critically examine the reasons behind the high levels of poverty and insecurity in northern states compared to their southern counterparts.
“As a league of northern Democrats, you have the experience to engage political leaders. Ask them: Are you proud of what you see? The high number of out-of-school children is alarming, and we cannot excuse this by citing poverty. If we continue to dwell on being poor, we will remain stagnant,” he asserted.
Cardinal Onayekan highlighted the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s regions, stating, “If the North does not progress, Nigeria cannot progress. Conversely, if Nigeria falters, Africa struggles. We cannot afford to have one section of the country lagging behind. This demands a national interest in your endeavours, even if it is simply for enlightened self-interest.”
The cardinal emphasised the need for unity among Nigeria’s regions and expressed his willingness to collaborate with leaders from all parts of the country who share a commitment to good governance. “The formation of the League of Northern Democrats is a welcome development. Your efforts to revitalise the north will set a positive course for revitalising Nigeria and, in turn, for Africa. We are the largest black nation in the world, and we must lead by example,” he stated.
He also urged the league to engage leadership in understanding why the economies of northern states are lagging and stressed the importance of fostering harmonious relationships between Christians and Muslims in the region.
“A peaceful coexistence between our religious communities is crucial for building a stable and united northern Nigeria,” he remarked.
Recalling the establishment of the Nigeria Inter-Religious Council (NIREC) during former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration, Cardinal Onayekan acknowledged that while complete religious harmony remains a goal, he believes that with persistent effort, Nigeria can achieve a state of coexistence and peace.
Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, chairman of the LND, articulated the group’s mission during the visit, stating that they aim to address poverty and insecurity through collaborative efforts with northern leaders.
“We are an apolitical group concerned about the economic and security challenges facing the 19 northern states. Our membership spans various political parties, and our primary goal is to rejuvenate the north from its current economic plight,” he explained.
Shekarau expressed optimism that with the support of leaders like Cardinal Onayekan, the LND can drive meaningful change in the northern region, thereby contributing to the broader revitalisation of Nigeria.
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