The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has emphasized that the North can no longer afford to remain inactive, unveiling a strategic investment and industrialisation summit aimed at revitalizing the region’s economy, leveraging its abundant resources, and addressing pressing issues such as insecurity and unemployment.
During an interview on Channels Television’s ‘Morning Brief’ on Tuesday, NEF spokesperson Professor Abubakar Jiddere highlighted the urgent need for the North to confront its economic difficulties independently rather than relying on external support for progress.
“Historically, the North has played a significant role in Nigeria’s development, especially during the colonial period,” Jiddere remarked. “However, over time, the region has faced numerous setbacks, including dwindling investments, rising insecurity, and the decline of key industries like textiles and manufacturing. These challenges have fueled unemployment and broader socio-economic issues. The North cannot afford to remain dormant any longer.”
“This is precisely why NEF is organizing this economic and industrialisation summit-to raise awareness among our leaders, including the 19 state governors, as well as local and international investors, to spearhead sustainable development,” he added.
Jiddere further pointed out that Northern Nigeria is richly endowed with both human and natural resources that remain largely untapped.
“The North has immense potential to achieve rapid development. Globally, we are recognized for our agricultural prowess and human capital, yet we have overlooked the strength of over 160 million capable young people,” he noted.
“As elders, we are committed to working closely with our capable governors and the federal government. There are at least 44 natural resources identified in the North-such as lithium, oil, gas, and gold-that remain underexploited. Harnessing these assets is crucial to restoring the North’s former prominence.”
NEF’s Deputy Director-General, Dr. Salisu Mohammed, also spoke on the program, emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation, including partnerships with the South, to rejuvenate industries and unlock new economic prospects.
“Collaborative efforts between the North and South are already underway,” Mohammed stated.
“For instance, the collaboration between Lagos and Kebbi states led to the launch of the Lake Rice project. Similarly, Gombe and Rivers states have formed partnerships, and Taraba State’s governor has engaged investors to establish a new airline. It is time to breathe new life into our industrial sector.”
The forum affirmed that the summit’s agenda will prioritize revitalizing agriculture, boosting manufacturing investments, and developing the solid minerals sector, while also addressing insecurity as a critical barrier to growth.
