Kaduna: The Chairman of the Northern States Governors’ Forum (NSGF) and Governor of Gombe State, Inuwa Yahaya, has affirmed that President Bola Tinubu has fulfilled the promises made during his 2023 campaign, stating, “he is still keeping them.” Yahaya expressed these views at a two-day Interactive Session on Government-citizens’ Engagement organized by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) at the Arewa House in Kaduna.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Yahaya emphasized that the theme of the programme, “Assessing Electoral Promises: Fostering Government-citizens’ Engagement for National Unity,” is central to the essence of democracy. He stated that true democracy and good governance require ongoing dialogue between leaders and citizens, not just a one-sided communication.
Yahaya highlighted the significance of forums like the SABMF session, underscoring their role in building public trust and enhancing citizens’ participation in governance. He noted that such gatherings are not merely for showcasing achievements but for creating spaces where citizens can question, suggest, and hold leaders accountable. He urged leaders to acknowledge their mistakes and make necessary adjustments based on public feedback.
The Governor praised the North’s collaboration with Tinubu’s administration, which he said has produced tangible outcomes in areas such as infrastructure, security, and governance. Yahaya reminisced about Tinubu’s campaign commitments to Northern Nigeria in 2023, which garnered strong support from the region, contributing to over 60% of Tinubu’s winning votes.
Yahaya asserted that the administration has delivered substantial results despite facing national challenges. He remarked that democracy thrives when leaders fulfill their promises, and this is achievable when citizens are actively engaged, and policies are crafted to meet their needs.
He cited several ongoing projects as evidence of progress in the region, including the completion of key infrastructure projects like the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Expressway, the Kano-Katsina-Maradi rail line, and the rehabilitation of the Kaduna Refinery. These projects are expected to drive industrial growth and enhance energy security in Northern Nigeria.
Yahaya also mentioned new infrastructure initiatives, such as the Sokoto-Badagry Superhighway, and agricultural value chain projects targeting Northern states. He acknowledged improvements in healthcare facilities, all of which point to a strategic effort to enhance the region’s wellbeing.
On the security front, Yahaya reported significant progress, with over 300 bandit kingpins and terrorist commanders being eliminated, disrupting criminal networks. He noted that while challenges remain, the situation is improving, with the creation of the Ministry of Livestock Development as a step towards modernizing the pastoral economy.
Yahaya recognized the economic reforms implemented by Tinubu’s administration, including the removal of fuel subsidies and exchange rate flotation, which, though painful, are necessary for long-term economic stability. He called on Northern stakeholders to sustain and build on these gains by complementing federal initiatives with local investments.
The session was attended by serving and former governors, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the National Security Adviser, service chiefs, ministers, aides, and leaders from various sectors in the North.
