Akume Urges Northern Leaders to Uphold Zoning as 2027 Elections Approach
As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 general elections, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and other northern leaders to uphold the zoning principle for the sake of national unity,leadership reports.
Speaking at the 11th Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture and Awards in Bauchi, Akume—represented by his Chief of Staff, Christopher Tarkaa—emphasized the importance of zoning in ensuring equitable representation and fostering unity across all regions.
Some northern political figures, including Atiku, El-Rufai, and Governor Mohammed, are believed to be strategizing for the 2027 presidential elections. However, many argue that such a move could disrupt political stability, as there is an expectation that the South should retain power for eight years before returning it to the North, mirroring President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure.
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“The principle of zoning has played a crucial role in maintaining Nigeria’s fragile balance,” Akume stated, urging political actors to prioritize national cohesion over personal ambition. He reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to social justice and equity, stressing that Nigeria’s strength lies in its diversity.
“This is evident in the creation of regional commissions to accelerate grassroots development,” he noted.
Akume also warned against actions that could jeopardize national unity, drawing parallels to the instability in countries like Somalia, Libya, and Iraq.
“I appeal to my brothers in Northern Nigeria to support President Bola Tinubu in his efforts to foster development and unity. The president has Nigeria’s best interests at heart,” he said.
Akume’s remarks come amid increasing tensions over potential shifts in the regional rotation of the presidency, as key political figures position themselves for the 2027 race. His appeal could reignite debates on how zoning can help sustain democratic stability in a nation with diverse regional interests.
Bauchi Governor: North Lacks a Unified Development Plan
Meanwhile, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has stressed the need for Northern Nigeria to establish a structured platform for regional integration, peer review mechanisms, and a clear development roadmap.
Speaking at the 11th Annual Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Lecture and Merit Awards in Bauchi, themed “Nature’s Bounty: Turning Northern Nigeria’s Untapped Resources into Sustainable Prosperity,” Governor Mohammed expressed deep concern over rising poverty, illiteracy, malnutrition, crime, and insurgency in the region.
“The Northern region lacks a clear plan; we are in disarray,” he lamented.
He, however, noted that under the leadership of the Northern Governors Forum (NGF), chaired by Gombe State Governor Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya, efforts are being made to address these challenges.
“We initiated this in the North-East Governors’ Forum, and now, other states across the country are adopting the model. Governor Inuwa Yahaya started this in 2019, and we are working to expand it nationwide.”
Governor Mohammed emphasized the importance of strategic planning and efficient resource management.
“We must assess where we are, determine where we want to be, and utilize our limited resources effectively to implement impactful policies,” he said.
He also called for increased accountability, transparency, and trust between the government and the people, drawing inspiration from the leadership of Sir Ahmadu Bello and Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa.
“These great leaders left us a legacy of unity, good governance, and strong values. It is our duty to preserve and pass it on to future generations,” he stated.
Governor Mohammed expressed disappointment over the declining quality of governance and worsening socio-economic conditions, urging a collective effort to address the region’s challenges.
“These problems are not insurmountable, but we must unite as Northerners and Nigerians, regardless of tribe, religion, or geography,” he asserted.
Reflecting on past leadership, he questioned why Nigeria could not replicate the vision and selflessness of its founding leaders.
“Why can’t we recreate the past? We need leaders who will dedicate themselves selflessly to the people, just as our forefathers did,” he said.
He highlighted Bauchi State’s Medium-Term Development Plan (2021–2025), which was designed even before he assumed office in 2019, as an example of governance guided by strategic planning.
“In Bauchi, we lead with a plan. Before we won the election, we had already developed a governance blueprint. If we had lost, we would have handed it over to whoever won to ensure continuity.”
“Good governance requires planning. Despite scarce resources, we have made significant progress because we evaluate our performance daily.”
Harnessing Northern Nigeria’s Resources for Development
The event’s guest speaker, former Finance Minister Dr. Mansur Mukhtar, highlighted the vast natural resources in Northern Nigeria, which, if properly harnessed, could address many of the region’s challenges.
Recalling the era when agriculture was the backbone of the northern economy, employing over 70% of the population, Mukhtar urged the adoption of modern agricultural technologies and sustainable practices to enhance productivity and food security.
He also stressed the importance of investing in human capital development, particularly in education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment, to drive socio-economic growth.
Similarly, Muazu Babangida Aliyu, Chairman of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation Board of Trustees, reaffirmed that the foundation remains a non-political and non-governmental organization dedicated to preserving the legacy of the late Premier of Northern Nigeria.
