Deputy President of the Senate, Sen. Barau Jibrin, on Saturday said Northern Nigeria can overcome its security challenges if leaders and key institutions work together and utilise available resources effectively.
Barau stated this at the 25th anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna. He represented the President of the Senate at the event.
He said the North had the capacity and institutional strength to address insecurity, adding that coordinated political will could replicate successes recorded in restoring stability in other parts of the country.
“The problems confronting the North are surmountable. We have the capacity, the leadership and the resources to deal with them.
“What is required is unity, collaboration and a coordinated approach. If other regions have overcome similar threats, nothing stops the North from doing the same,” he said.
Barau congratulated the ACF on its silver jubilee, describing the forum as a rallying point that had consistently spoken for the North and contributed to national development.
He paid tribute to the founding fathers of the forum, commending their “foresight, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to building a resilient and united North”.
The lawmaker said the trend analysis earlier presented by the ACF leadership, which highlighted rising insecurity, social tensions and developmental gaps, should not overshadow the region’s long-standing resilience.
“Yes, the challenges are real. But the North is known for its courage and determination. Reports and data may point to our problems, but they do not define who we are,” he added.
Barau said the security situation in the North reflected broader patterns across West Africa, noting that terrorism and banditry had become regional concerns requiring stronger cooperation among governments.
“Insecurity today is not limited to Nigeria; it is a regional issue. But it has been tackled successfully elsewhere through political will, good leadership and proper coordination. The same can be achieved here,” he said.
He noted that the North currently enjoyed strategic representation at the federal level, pointing out that several principal officers from the region were working with state and local institutions to address root causes of insecurity.
Barau urged Northern governors to make effective use of increased revenues and work closely with federal lawmakers to secure funding and legislative support for critical security programmes.
“If the resources within the states are not enough, Mr President is ready to intervene. But the initiative must start from home. Leaders must take ownership of the solutions,” he said.
He also encouraged the ACF to intensify dialogue among stakeholders, warning that progress would remain slow without sustained engagement and policy alignment.
“The ACF must continue to bring leaders, traditional rulers, community groups and policymakers to the same table. Inclusive conversations are key to designing lasting solutions. No single institution can do it alone,” he said.
Barau expressed optimism that with unity and strategic planning, the North would overcome its challenges and rebuild its stability.
“Let’s not lose hope. With the right actions and effective use of our resources, we will overcome insecurity and every other challenge confronting our region. The North will rise again,” he said.