The Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) expressed concern on Saturday over the dire situation in Northern Nigeria, where many people are struggling to afford even one meal a day due to the persistent insecurity and socio-economic challenges affecting the region.
This issue was raised during a one-day community engagement event held in Katsina, chaired by Professor Sani Abubakar Lugga, the fifth Wazirin Katsina. The theme of the engagement was “Imperative of Popular Participation in Tackling Socioeconomic Challenges Bedeviling Nigeria Through Community Solutions.” Speaking to reporters, Jamilu Aliyu Charanchi, the National Coordinator of the CNG, emphasized that insecurity in the North has become deeply entrenched, highlighting the urgent need for a lasting solution.
Charanchi stressed that the time for lamentation is over, as it is widely acknowledged across the country that Nigeria is in a severe crisis. He pointed out that many people in the North can no longer afford even one meal a day, let alone three. He described the insecurity in the region as “walking on two legs,” underscoring the severity of the situation. Charanchi also noted that the failure to address these issues lies not only with the leaders but also with the community, urging citizens to take responsibility and contribute to resolving the problems.
As part of the CNG’s efforts to address these challenges, Charanchi explained that after a roundtable discussion with stakeholders in Abuja, the group decided to engage local communities. The goal is to empower community members and stakeholders with the knowledge to actively contribute to alleviating insecurity and economic hardships in the North. The event gathered leaders from various organizations, who are expected to return to their respective communities and share the insights gained from the engagement.
Addressing corruption in the country, Charanchi linked it to the numerous problems plaguing Nigeria, such as insecurity, economic difficulties, and the decline in essential services like education and healthcare. He argued that these issues stem from a leadership crisis, stating that Nigeria needs leaders who are genuinely committed to the welfare of the people.
According to Charanchi, Nigeria is currently lacking true leaders, as most politicians are only focused on securing their next election rather than addressing the needs of the next generation. He expressed skepticism about whether the current leaders possess the moral integrity, fear of God, or sense of humanity necessary to bring about real change. Instead, he accused many of being self-serving and more interested in personal enrichment and looting public resources.
Charanchi concluded that the solution lies in community action, with people realizing that they are the true government and must take responsibility for bringing about change at the grassroots level.
Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State, who was represented by the State Commissioner for Information and Culture, Bala Zango, also spoke at the event. He commended the CNG for organizing the meeting and highlighted the efforts his administration has made to address insecurity in Katsina. He stated that Katsina has become a role model for tackling insecurity in the North and urged the youth to learn from past mistakes.
Governor Radda referred to the recent nationwide protests against hunger and bad governance, warning that such protests, while intended to be peaceful, can easily be hijacked by bad elements and turn violent. He emphasized that dialogue is a better approach to resolving issues, noting the loss of lives and destruction of property during the protests.
In his closing remarks, Governor Radda reiterated the need for continued efforts to improve security, economic stability, and development in Katsina and the North as a whole, urging citizens to embrace peaceful solutions and avoid actions that could further destabilize the region.