By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
Former Head of State Gen. Yakubu Gowon (retd.), represented by former Vice President Namadi Sambo, has urged greater unity and regional cooperation as the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), marked its 25th anniversary in Kaduna.
Gowon said the North must prioritise peace and cohesion to tackle its worsening security challenges, noting that the ACF’s founding principles of moderation and nation-building remain vital.
He warned that extremists continue to exploit division, stressing that unity is essential for development.
ACF Board of Trustees chairman Bashir Dalhatu said insecurity in the region has deteriorated since the forum’s formation in 2000, citing frequent attacks, abductions and the recent killing of a senior military officer.
He urged the government to act decisively, warning that prolonged violence could have grave consequences.
Dalhatu pointed to the closure of hundreds of boarding schools as proof of the crisis and called for stronger coordination among traditional rulers, governors and security agencies.
He also commended security personnel but said more must be done.
The event also saw the unveiling of an ACF endowment fund, with businessman Abdulsamad Rabiu named chief launcher. Dalhatu described the initiative as a long-term investment in northern development.
Representatives of Afenifere, Ohanaeze, PANDEF, BRAC and other groups attended, a turnout organisers said reflected growing interregional goodwill.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Aliko Dangote were also present.
Traditional rulers, including the Sultan of Sokoto, called for grassroots peacebuilding and stronger interfaith dialogue.
The anniversary ended with a renewed commitment to collaboration and the ACF’s pledge to support efforts to protect
