A coalition of northern youth groups under the aegis of the Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) has expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following his declaration of insecurity and poverty as national emergencies. The group described the move as a critical step toward addressing the region's long-standing challenges, noting that these issues have hindered peace, productivity, and development for decades.
NYF Commends President's Workers' Day Address
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Sama Musa, the NYF lauded the President's Workers' Day address as bold, timely, and reflective of the realities faced by Nigerians, particularly those in the northern region. Musa stated: "The Northern Youth Frontiers officially welcomes and commends the courageous and visionary Workers' Day address delivered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a move that reflects the true yearnings of the grassroots, the President's declaration of Insecurity and Poverty as National Emergencies marks a significant turning point in the 'Renewed Hope' agenda."
Recognition of Fundamental Barriers
Musa emphasized that the NYF, representing youth interests across the North, views the declaration as a long-awaited acknowledgment of the fundamental barriers to national productivity and peace. He noted that insecurity and poverty have disproportionately affected the region, making this recognition crucial for future progress.
Key Initiatives Praised by NYF
The group highlighted several administration initiatives that align with their goals:
- Community Safety Recruitment: The recruitment of 45,000 young Nigerians into community safety initiatives, which not only bolsters local security but also provides meaningful employment for youth.
- Agro-Rangers Deployment: The deployment of 10,000 NSCDC Agro-Rangers to 19 states, particularly benefiting northern farmers by enabling them to return to farms without fear of banditry, thereby ensuring food security and economic stability.
- Social Safety Nets: The expansion of cash transfers to 15 million households and lifting 7.5 million Nigerians out of poverty.
- Economic Buffers: The reintroduction of gratuity payments effective January 2026 and clearance of pension arrears, providing dignity to elders and future security for youth.
- Infrastructure Projects: The creation of 600,000 jobs through landmark projects like the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano gas pipeline, which is of strategic importance to northern Nigeria's industrialization.
Multi-Dimensional Approach
Musa further stated: "By declaring insecurity and poverty as national emergencies, President Tinubu has moved beyond mere rhetoric. He has identified the 'twin demons' that have held the North back for decades. We are particularly impressed by the multi-dimensional approach, linking security directly to agriculture and infrastructure. When the farmer is safe, the nation is fed; when the youth are employed, the recruiters of insurgency find no candidates."
Call for Sustained Momentum
However, the NYF urged the Federal Government to sustain momentum by ensuring that initiatives such as the N200 billion MSME support fund and the National Agricultural Growth Scheme are accessible to genuine small-scale entrepreneurs and farmers in remote communities. Musa concluded: "The NYF remains committed to supporting this administration in its quest to ensure that 'decent work' becomes a right for every Nigerian, rather than a privilege for a few. We call on all labor unions and stakeholders to heed the President's call for dialogue, ensuring that our national journey toward recovery is not disrupted. Nigeria is on the path to healing, and the Northern Youth stand ready to play their part."
