N orthern Nigeria's political and economic future is set to take center stage as key figures from the region gear up for a critical summit in Kaduna. This strategic gathering, organized by the League of Northern Democrats (LND), aims to address the region's challenges and chart a course towards revitalizing its influence in the national landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
During a meeting in Abuja on Tuesday, the LND, which includes former governors, senators, and other prominent leaders, revealed plans for the summit. The initiative seeks to unify Northern Nigeria and position it as a formidable force in the country's political arena. The group emphasized that this summit is not just about the upcoming elections but also about tackling long-standing issues such as economic development and security within the region.
Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, Protem Chairman of the LND and former governor of Kano State, underscored the importance of the summit, stating, "This summit will serve as a platform for discussing the region’s political future, economic development, and security challenges. It will bring together key leaders, thinkers, and influencers to chart a new course for the North."
The LND's efforts come in the wake of recent unrest across northern states, where protests demanding better governance turned violent. Vice President Kashim Shettima, in a recent interview, attributed the violence to leadership failures and expressed the need for a high-level meeting of northern stakeholders to address these issues.
The summit is expected to feature a broad spectrum of northern leaders, including former heads of state, vice presidents, Senate presidents, and other influential figures. These stakeholders will collaborate to produce a comprehensive document outlining the region's aspirations and solutions to its challenges. This document will serve as a benchmark for evaluating future leaders and their commitment to the region's development.
In a communiqué signed by LND convener Umar Ardo and interim secretary Emmanuel Jime, the group reaffirmed its commitment to unifying the North and restoring its prominence in national politics. The communiqué stated, "Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences within our ranks, we are committed to fostering a strong sense of community and solidarity. This unity will serve as the foundation for our efforts to reposition the North as a leading force in Nigeria’s political landscape."
As the summit approaches, northern leaders are poised to leverage this opportunity to strengthen their region's standing and ensure its interests are well-represented in the years to come.
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