The challenges facing Northern Nigeria have been a significant concern for many years. These problems can be traced back to 2009 when insurgency and terrorism began taking root in the region.
Unfortunately, the situation worsened after former President Muhammadu Buhari assumed office in 2015. During his tenure, the region became synonymous with terrorism, poverty, and other social and economic challenges.
There is a common misconception among some people that the challenges of Northern Nigeria can be solved simply by electing a president from the North.
However, if that were true, former President Buhari, who hails from the North, would have been able to address the region’s problems effectively.
He spent eight years in office, yet there were no substantial improvements in the lives of ordinary Northerners.
Instead, the North witnessed an escalation in terrorism, poverty, the rise in out-of-school children, lack of basic infrastructure such as electricity, and numerous other issues.
This reality highlights a fundamental truth: the presidency alone cannot solve Northern Nigeria’s problems.
The Northerners themselves, particularly their leaders at various levels, must take responsibility and lead the effort to bring lasting solutions to the region’s challenges.
Northern governors, traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders must rise to the occasion and work together to address these pressing issues.
Despite the North retaining political power for eight years during Buhari’s presidency, the region did not experience the positive changes many hoped for.
This underscores the need for a different approach. Relying solely on the federal government or the presidency has proven to be ineffective.
Instead, Northern leaders must focus on grassroots efforts and local solutions to uplift their people.
One of the most alarming issues in the North is the staggering number of out-of-school children.
Millions of children in the region are denied access to education, which perpetuates poverty and criminality.
Without education, the younger generation is left vulnerable to recruitment by insurgent groups and other criminal organizations. Addressing this issue should be a top priority for Northern leaders.
Additionally, corruption and selfishness among some Northern leaders have hindered progress in the region.
There is an urgent need for leaders to set aside personal interests and prioritize the well-being of the masses.
Investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development are crucial to breaking the cycle of poverty and underdevelopment that has plagued the region for decades.
The contrast between the North and the South is also worth noting. Southern Nigeria, with its focus on development, education, and economic growth, has made significant strides in improving the lives of its people.
Northern leaders can learn from this approach by fostering collaboration and implementing policies that prioritize the welfare of their citizens.
Ultimately, the solutions to Northern Nigeria’s problems lie within the region itself. The governors, traditional leaders, and community stakeholders must act decisively to address the root causes of the challenges facing their people.
By working together and taking ownership of their problems, Northerners can create a brighter future for their region and break free from the cycle of poverty, terrorism, and underdevelopment.
Northern Nigeria has immense potential, and it is time for its leaders to harness that potential for the benefit of their people. The problems of the North must be solved by Northerners, not the presidency.
The responsibility lies with those who are directly connected to the region and its people to bring about lasting and meaningful change.