Osun

North Has Capacity to Tackle Rising Insecurity — Deputy Senate President

ByTitilope Adako

PublishedNovember 23, 2025

Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin, on Saturday, expressed confidence that Northern Nigeria can overcome its security challenges if regional leaders and institutions collaborate effectively.

Speaking at the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) in Kaduna, Barau said the North has the capacity, leadership, and resources to address insecurity, noting that coordinated political will could replicate successes achieved in stabilising other parts of the country.

“The problems confronting the North are surmountable. 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.

Representing the Senate President, Barau congratulated the ACF on its Silver Jubilee, describing it as a platform that has consistently championed the North and contributed to national development. He also honoured the forum’s founding fathers for their foresight and commitment to building a resilient region.

Acknowledging rising insecurity, social tensions, and developmental gaps, Barau stressed that the region’s history of resilience and collective strength should not be overlooked.

“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 highlighted the strategic federal representation of Northern leaders, including the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Deputy Senate President, working closely to support states in addressing the root causes of insecurity.

Barau urged Northern governors to leverage increased revenues, engage federal lawmakers, and secure funding and legislative support for critical security initiatives.

“If 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 called on the ACF to strengthen dialogue among stakeholders, noting that sustainable progress requires policy alignment, shared commitment, and inclusive engagement.

“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.

Titilope Adako

Titilope Adako is a talented and intrepid journalist, dedicated to shedding light on the untold stories of Osun State and Nigeria. Through incisive reporting, she tackles a broad spectrum of topics, from politics and social justice to culture and entertainment, with a commitment to accuracy, empathy, and inspiring positive change.