An esteemed elder statesman, Usman Bugaje, has expressed concern regarding the worsening situation in Northern Nigeria, which is confronted with significant challenges that necessitate a united response to avert a complete breakdown.
He pointed out that the region is afflicted by poverty, insecurity, and corruption, noting that nearly 60 percent of students in higher education are unable to return to their studies due to their parents’ inability to cover tuition and transportation costs.
Bugaje stated, “Over the past 25 years of Nigeria’s democratic governance, poverty has more than doubled in the region, with over 33 million Nigerians facing hunger.” He elaborated that the national currency has depreciated considerably, rendering the minimum wage inadequate for purchasing essential items such as a bag of rice, thereby underscoring the failing economy.
While addressing the Arewa Movement for Good Governance Conference, themed “The North and the Dangers Looming on the Horizon: The Need for a New Conversation and a New Narrative,” held on Saturday in Kaduna, Bugaje expressed his dismay that the North is grappling with critical issues that remain unaddressed. He remarked, “This situation is both alarming and troubling. We must convene to tackle these challenges.”
He further noted that insecurity has proliferated and intensified to unprecedented levels, hindering trade, commerce, and agriculture—the backbone of the region’s economy—while also indicating that public institutions are deteriorating and failing to deliver essential services.
Bugaje highlighted that the state of infrastructure, especially electricity, is unreliable, with neighboring Niger Republic seemingly faring better in this regard.
He asserted that the social sector is experiencing severe distress, as the decline in human capital is evident, and there are insufficient job opportunities for the predominantly unemployable youth. In essence, Nigeria is failing to function effectively.
Bugaje expressed concern that politicians are shamelessly reveling in a facade of success, delivering hollow speeches that are supported by a burgeoning network of sycophants, opportunists, and a contingent of thugs, many of whom are substance abusers.
He pointed out that Nigerians are on a perilous path with no promising future in sight, highlighting the alarming statistic of 20 million children out of school, predominantly in the northern region. He warned that the nation is sitting on a ticking time bomb, as nearly 60% of students in northern tertiary institutions are unable to resume their education.
Bugaje further criticized the erosion of traditional institutions by political leaders, whom he characterized as symbols of moral decay. He noted that numerous religious figures have been lured by financial incentives and have become entangled in a political landscape rife with violence, corrupt practices, and the excessive ambitions of individuals intent on seizing power by any means necessary.
He underscored that the fundamental issue facing Nigeria is a lack of effective leadership and called for a united effort among northern elites to confront the region’s challenges, asserting that history will not absolve Nigerian leaders for their inaction regarding the nation’s pressing issues.
Mr. Tom Maiyashi, the Chairman of the Organizing Committee and former Commissioner for Education in Kaduna State, remarked that the northern region is on the brink of collapse. He urged the people of the North to unite in order to safeguard the region for future generations, stating, “Northern elites must regain their senses and confront the challenges facing the region.”
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