By Ibrahim Abdul’Aziz,Yola
The Governor of Niger State and Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum Dr. Muazu Babangida Aliyu has reiterated the determination of Northern Nigeria to participate actively in the National Conference being organized by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Aliyu dropped the hint in Yola after he was turbaned Bauran Adamawa by his Royal Higness the Lamido of Adamawa Dr. Muhammadu Barkindo Aliyu Mustapha in the ancient city of Yola.
The Governor said the North is never afraid of the proposed National conference as he was emphatic that the conference will affect the region positively when finally convoked.
“As the Chairman of the Northern Governor’s Forum, I believe the convocation of National Conference is in the interest of the North. We are awaiting its coming without any fear as we believed the North will be the better for it,” he said.
Aliyu therefore enjoined all Northern governors to prepare fully in the build up to the conference so that the region will be represented well at the conference so that issues concerning Northern Nigeria will be adequately captured and articulated.
“I enjoin all Northern Governors and the elites to fully prepare and mobilize their people for full participation so that the concerns of the North can fully capture.
“We should make sure that we produce the names of our best eleven in order to discuss issues without fear”, he added.
He said for the country to enjoy peace, dialogue must be embraced by all regardless of ethnic, religious and political inclination.
“Unity cannot be achieved if justice and fair play are not entrenched in our psyche. Therefore the National Conference is a good avenue for people to sit together and discuss their common problems”.
Aliyu also canvassed constitutional responsibilities for the traditional institution as he said they play prominent role in unifying the people.
“Traditional Institutions should be accorded the kind of responsibility they can handle. They also help significantly in nation building efforts,” Aliyu said.
