- Dr. Usman Bugaje highlights that poverty has doubled in 25 years, leaving over 33 million Nigerians facing starvation and economic collapse
- He urges northern elites to unite against worsening conditions, emphasizing that youth unemployment and failing infrastructure are leading to disaster
Elder statesman Dr. Usman Bugaje has raised concerns over the worsening condition of Northern Nigeria. He stressed that poverty, insecurity, and corruption push the region toward collapse, urging collective efforts to prevent further decline.
According to Dr. Bugaje, nearly 60% of tertiary institution students cannot return due to unaffordable tuition and transportation costs. He revealed that in 25 years of democracy, poverty has more than doubled, leaving over 33 million Nigerians facing starvation.
He also highlighted the economic crisis, stating that the country’s currency has significantly depreciated. The minimum wage is insufficient to buy a single bag of rice, showing how the economy is collapsing.
Dr. Bugaje made these remarks as the Arewa Movement for Good Governance Conference convener. Themed “The North and the Dangers Looming on the Horizon: The Need for a New Conversation and a New Narrative,” the event took place on Saturday in Kaduna.
“The North is in crisis, and we are not taking action. This situation is alarming,” he stated.
“Insecurity has spread beyond control, crippling trade, commerce, and agriculture—the backbone of the region’s economy. Public institutions are failing in service delivery,” he added.
He also criticized the poor infrastructure, especially electricity, which remains unreliable. He pointed out that the neighbouring Niger Republic appears to be performing better in this sector.
“The social sector is suffering the most. Human capital is declining, and youth unemployment is soaring. Simply put, Nigeria is not working,” he lamented.
He accused politicians of indulging in false pride, delivering empty speeches while surrounding themselves with praise singers, hangers-on, and thugs, many of whom are drug users.
“We are heading toward disaster with no clear future. With 20 million out-of-school children—most of them in the North—we are sitting on a time bomb. Nearly 60% of tertiary students in the region cannot afford to continue their education,” he warned.
Dr. Bugaje also condemned the weakening of traditional institutions by political leaders, whom he described as symbols of decay.
“Many religious leaders have been compromised with money and drawn into a corrupt political culture dominated by violence and money politics. Some politicians are willing to do anything to stay in power,” he added.
He emphasized that leadership remains Nigeria’s biggest challenge. He urged northern elites to unite and address these pressing issues.
“History will not forgive the Nigerian elites for failing to solve these problems,” he warned.
Former Kaduna State Commissioner for Education and Chairman of the Organizing Committee, Mr. Tom Maiyashi, echoed these concerns. He stated that Northern Nigeria is on the verge of collapse and called on northerners to take action.
“Northern elites must wake up and tackle these challenges before it’s too late,” he urged.