The League of Northern Democrats (LND), established by Dr. Umar Ardo and currently led by Senator Ibrahim Shekarau, has successfully formed a significant coalition with various northern organizations, including the Arewa Consultative Forum, Northern Elders Forum, and Middle Belt Forum, with the objective of challenging President Bola Tinubu in the 2027 elections.
This coalition, which seeks to tackle the urgent issues confronting Northern Nigeria, was officially established during a meeting held in Kaduna on Thursday between leaders of the LND and the ACF. The League, convened by the esteemed elder statesman Dr. Umar Ardo, was recently inaugurated in a gathering that included influential Northern elites in Abuja.
The membership of the League of Northern Democrats comprises former governors, senators, and other distinguished individuals from the region. This collective effort is anticipated to have significant repercussions for the upcoming presidential election in 2027.
Senator Shekarau, represented by former Minister of Transportation Ibrahim Isa Bio, stated that this coalition signifies the dawn of a transformative period for Northern Nigeria. He underscored the necessity of commitment, collaboration, and a unified vision among all participating groups.
Shekarau remarked that the coalition would urge key political figures, including state governors, legislators, and even the presidency, to support and align with their objectives. He expressed, “In our endeavor to reconstruct a more robust Northern Nigeria, I am pleased to announce that we have also engaged in consultative discussions with the leadership of the Northern Elders Forum and the Middle Belt Forum, resulting in fruitful agreements in principle to establish a coalition among our four organizations – ACF, LND, NEF, and the Middle Belt Forum.
“This coalition is not merely for the present but is aimed at securing a future where Northern Nigeria reclaims its position as a symbol of progress, culture, and leadership within Nigeria.”
This collective initiative aims to achieve the long-desired unity of the North. The implications of such a coalition will be significant: political groups including the PDP, APC, LP, NNPP, SDP, state governors, legislators, and even the presidency will be compelled to acknowledge and align with our vision, thereby restoring the dignity, stability, and influence of Northern Nigeria for the benefit of all citizens.
It is both a privilege and an honor to address you today on this significant occasion.
I would like to start by extending our sincere appreciation to the leadership of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) for facilitating this important meeting.
This event signifies the commencement of what we aspire to be a transformative coalition for Northern Nigeria.
The challenges confronting our region—poverty, insecurity, illiteracy, religious intolerance, disunity, and waning political influence—are indeed grave.
Currently, the North finds itself in a troubling predicament. However, we are all aware that this situation can be reversed. It necessitates commitment, collaboration, and a unified vision from each of us.
In truth, we owe it to ourselves and future generations to undertake this responsibility. I firmly believe that it is this sense of duty that has united us here today.
We acknowledge and greatly value the contributions of the ACF in safeguarding the values, culture, and dignity of the North.
Your unwavering commitment and resilience over the years have served as a beacon of hope. In this context, the League of Northern Democrats introduces new perspectives, innovative strategies, and a renewed dedication to advancing the interests of our people.
He stated that the alliance between the League of Northern Democrats and the Arewa Consultative Forum signifies a pivotal opportunity to enhance the collective voice of the North, ensuring that the region’s priorities are prominently featured in national discussions. This collaboration aims to combine our extensive resources—experience, influence, knowledge, and finances—to develop effective solutions to our common challenges, while also reinforcing the economic, political, and social framework of the North, thereby fostering an atmosphere of trust, cooperation, and mutual advancement.
This coalition transcends mere symbolism; it represents a tangible initiative to cultivate a united North capable of reclaiming its rightful status as a significant force in Nigeria’s political landscape and power dynamics. The League of Northern Democrats possesses a practical understanding of Nigeria’s political power dynamics, with a goal to reposition the North as a cohesive and influential entity, complemented by the established networks and influence of the Arewa Consultative Forum, the Northern Elders Forum, and the Middle Belt Forum.
This collaboration will inherently foster and strengthen our regional unity and influence, compelling all political stakeholders to acknowledge and align with the coalition’s vision. This should be our primary objective.
As we embark on the journey to solidify our partnership, today’s meeting should concentrate on defining shared goals, establishing both immediate and long-term objectives to promote sustainable development in the North, and leveraging our strengths by utilizing our combined experience, influence, and expertise for maximum effect.
It is essential to ensure coordination and complementarity in our efforts to prevent redundancy, and to work collaboratively as a team to effectively address the challenges facing our region. I encourage all participants to engage in this process with sincerity, openness, a shared sense of purpose, and a steadfast commitment.
Together, we possess the capability to transform the narrative of our region and secure a legacy of prosperity and unity for future generations.
I express my gratitude once more for the opportunity to establish a coalition that aims to bring about significant change in the North and, consequently, in Nigeria. It is my hope that our discussions today will signify the commencement of a productive and lasting partnership.
Bashir Dalhatu, the Chairman of the ACF’s Board of Trustees, extended a warm welcome to the leadership of the LND, emphasizing that the formation of this coalition is a positive advancement. He recognized the impressive progress made by the LND since its inception and took pride in the collective purpose of the North.
“Collaboration yields greater results, and I have come to appreciate that the League of Northern Democrats comprises individuals of exceptional intellect. We are indeed fortunate to engage with such knowledgeable minds.
“We have been closely monitoring the developments and initiatives of the LND since its founding, and we take great pride in the fact that, regardless of any divisions, the core essence and vision of the North remain unchanged,” he remarked.
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