Former Vice President Namadi Sambo has expressed deep concern over the worsening insecurity in Northern Nigeria, highlighting its impact on agriculture, education, and children’s health. According to Sambo, the escalating violence has driven many farmers away from their lands, further compounding the region’s socio-economic challenges.
Sambo voiced his concerns while endorsing the League of Northern Democrats, a new platform aimed at addressing the pressing issues in the North. The group, led by former Kano State Governor Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, visited Sambo at his Abuja residence on Saturday.
“It is very troubling to see how insecurity has crippled agriculture and is now threatening the education and health of children and women. This situation has continued to deepen poverty and inequality in the North and across the country,” Sambo said.
He urged the League to focus on fulfilling the aspirations of the region’s people, emphasizing the need for collective efforts regardless of political affiliations. “We must leverage our experiences and resources to contribute to sustainable peace and socio-economic development,” he added.
The League of Northern Democrats, convened by elder statesman Umar Ardo, was recently launched and attended by notable Northern elites. It seeks to tackle issues such as insecurity, poverty, and drug abuse, which have plagued the region.
In a separate statement, former Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Abdulrahman Dambazau also expressed concern over the region’s deteriorating conditions. He pointed to the rise in banditry, illiteracy, and drug addiction as major challenges requiring urgent and coordinated responses. Dambazau praised the League’s efforts, stating that it provides an opportunity to bring together leaders and stakeholders to forge a path toward a more prosperous Northern Nigeria.
The League has announced plans to hold a historic summit in Kaduna in October, with Vice President Kashim Shettima expected to attend. The non-partisan group, according to Ardo, aims to assist the government in addressing the myriad challenges facing Northern states, without aligning with any political party or religious group.
