Former Social Democratic Party presidential candidate Prince Adewole Adebayo has emphasized the need for collective effort to address the issue of episodic governance in Nigeria. During a visit to the Arewa Consultative Forum headquarters in Abuja, Adebayo stressed that the country’s progress is hindered by the lack of continuity in development plans, which are often abandoned by successive governments.

Adebayo met with the forum’s board of trustees chairman, Bashir Dalhatu, and highlighted the importance of national integration, particularly as political institutions face challenges. He noted that the North remains a vital component of the Nigerian state, and organizations like the Arewa Consultative Forum and the Northern Elders Forum play a crucial role in promoting stability and unity.

The SDP chieftain drew an analogy between Nigeria’s journey to nationhood and a train, stating that there is no reverse gear, and the country must move forward. Adebayo expressed concern over the lack of a common basis for unity, citing the tragic killings in the North, which have failed to unite the nation in condemnation. He emphasized the need for national unity to transcend religion, ethnicity, and region, and for reforms to focus on making Nigeria work for all citizens.

Adebayo also stressed the importance of preparing a new generation of patriotic Nigerians to take up leadership roles, promising that his party’s politics would prioritize accountability and service delivery. He emphasized that no reform should render any citizen a non-Nigerian, and that there is only one Nigeria.

In response, ACF Chairman Bashir Dalhatu commended Adebayo’s patriotism and passion for national unity, describing him as one of the few politicians who think beyond regional lines. Dalhatu noted that the ACF was established to protect the interests of the North within the context of a united Nigeria, and that Nigerians should prioritize their national identity above regional affiliations.

The meeting highlights the need for collective effort to address Nigeria’s governance challenges and promote national unity. As the country prepares for future leadership, the emphasis on accountability, service delivery, and patriotism is likely to remain a key aspect of the national conversation. With the Arewa Consultative Forum and other organizations playing a vital role in promoting stability and unity, Nigeria’s progress towards a more integrated and effective governance system may depend on the ability of its leaders to work together and prioritize the nation’s interests.