Former Kaduna State Governor, Senator Ahmed Mohammed Makarfi, has issued a strong appeal to the Federal Government, calling for decisive action to eradicate terrorism and stabilise the nation's struggling economy in the coming year, 2026.
A Call for National Renewal in 2026
In a New Year message delivered on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, Makarfi, who also serves as the Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Caretaker Committee and is a former Secretary of the party's Board of Trustees (BoT), described the outgoing year as one that severely tested the patience and resilience of Nigerian citizens. He pointed to widespread economic hardships, pervasive insecurity, and various other uncertainties as the major challenges of 2025.
"The new year, 2026 offers us an opportunity to strengthen our resolve to confront and overcome our challenges together as a people united by shared hopes and a promising destiny," Makarfi stated. He emphasised that looking ahead requires courage, hard work, and unwavering faith in Nigeria's potential.
Leveraging Nigeria's Diversity for Strength
The former governor highlighted Nigeria's diverse human and material resources as a key endowment from God that must be harnessed for national progress. He argued that this diversity should be a source of strength, not division.
"Using this, we can rekindle hope and reinforce unity across all lines," Makarfi said. He further explained that mutual respect and sustained dialogue are essential to leveraging the nation's disparate skills and expertise. The ultimate goal, according to him, is to build a Nigeria that instills pride in both current and future generations.
Appeal for Security and Economic Relief
Makarfi directed a specific appeal to governments at all levels, urging them to intensify efforts aimed at eliminating all forms of seemingly intractable insecurity. He also called for the introduction of concrete measures to ease the heavy burdens imposed by the country's ongoing economic difficulties.
Concluding his message with a prayer, Makarfi expressed his hope for divine intervention: "It is my fervent prayer that God Almighty brings forth a 2026 and beyond that heralds renewed unity and peace, improved security, economic recovery and greater opportunities for all Nigerians." His statement underscores a critical national demand as Nigeria steps into a new year, with citizens eagerly awaiting tangible improvements in safety and economic well-being.
