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By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

The recent pronouncement by the Minister of State for Defence, Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, underscores a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity in the Northwest region. The directive for the Chief of Defence Staff and military leaders to converge upon Sokoto, the operational headquarters covering Sokoto, Zamfara, Katsina, and Kebbi states, marks a significant escalation in the government’s efforts to dismantle the escalating threats posed by banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism. The lion roars, signifying a determination to assert control over regions plagued by criminal violence.
As the minister articulates the government’s strategy, it is essential to grasp the gravity of the current situation. The Northwest has seen an alarming rise in terrorist activities and banditry, creating a climate of fear and uncertainty. Access to critical resources, regular economic activities, and general peace have been severely undermined. Communities that once thrived face an existential threat that displaces families, disrupts education, and stifles economic opportunities. Against this backdrop, Dr. Matawalle’s recent commitments symbolically signal a pivot towards rebuilding stability in the region.
This strategic move presents a clear demonstration of the federal government’s unwavering resolve to restore peace and security. By relocating military leadership and resources to the affected areas, it is evident that the government aims to recalibrate its operational methodologies. Engaging directly with the local leadership on ground gives military commanders the opportunity to reassess the complexities of the security landscape they face, ensuring a tailored response that reflects the unique challenges of the Northwest.
Moreover, the focus on flushing out notorious bandit Bello Turji and his gang illustrates a specific operational target—an essential tactic for restoring confidence in state power. Criminal elements that propagate insecurity through violence must be met with an unyielding stance, and the government’s current approach suggests such a commitment.
The distressing incident which surfaced in Kwashabawa, Zurmi Local Government Area of Zamfara State—where bandits jeered at the operational failures of military personnel—further complicates the prevailing security issues. Videos showcasing the vulnerability of Nigerian armed forces can undermine public confidence in the military and the government’s ability to maintain order. Such occurrences are intolerable, as they wage psychological warfare not only against the security forces but also against the populace who rely on them for protection.
The proactive measures now being undertaken must, therefore, encompass strategies that address both the immediate needs of security personnel and the longer-term systematic issues that contribute to banditry. Efforts to bolster military capabilities, logistics, and intelligence-gathering operations have to be prioritized. In tandem, initiatives directed at social, economic, and educational development in affected regions must be considered. The efficacy of military operations is diminished if contextually, the root causes of insecurity remain unaddressed.
The ongoing support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Armed Forces of Nigeria plays an instrumental role in this crucial phase. It reflects a unified government stance that prioritizes security as an imperative national interest. The collaborative efforts between political leadership and military command signal a strategic alignment necessary for confronting multifaceted threats in the Northwest.
The lion’s roar from the Ministry of Defence should be heard as a clarion call for renewed engagement and investment in strategies against insecurity. The gravity of the situation in Northwest Nigeria demands unwavering commitment and cooperation across all levels of government, security agencies, and the communities themselves. With strategic military deployment, clear operational goals, and an integrated approach that addresses underlying socio-economic issues, the ultimate end of insecurity may very well be within sight. The collective resolve to restore peace in this beleaguered region of Nigeria must translate into tangible outcomes, ensuring that the lion remains vigilant and empowered in the face of challenges that threaten its dominion.

By Salifu Dogon

The Arewa Youths Consultative Forum (AYCF) has officially pledged its unwavering support for the strategic military deployment proposed by the Defence Minister of State, Bello Mohammed Matawalle, aimed at relocating military assets to Sokoto. This initiative is viewed as a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to combat the escalating security challenges inherent in the northern region.

A statement issued by the President General of the forum, Yerima Shettima said, as violence, criminality, and insurgency threatens the safety and socio-economic stability of northern Nigeria, the AYCF recognizes the urgent necessity for decisive action. He said, the call for an enhanced military presence in Sokoto State is rooted in a broader desire to restore peace and order which are critical components for fostering an environment ripe for development and prosperity.

“Recognizing the challenges posed by persistent violence and crime, the AYCF acknowledges that effective implementation of this military strategy is essential for restoring safety and security. The organization highlights its unwavering support for measures that prioritize the protection of citizens and the stability of communities. In the face of this seriousness, Shettima. said, AYCF leaders are aware that some collaborators may emerge, attempting to undermine this commendable initiative with various agendas that hamper progress toward a peaceful and secure environment.

“We call on the federal government to arrest immediately any such voices, whether in the guise of misinformation, dissent, or undue skepticism, and prosecute them appropriately,” they stated, emphasizing that any attempts to obstruct national security efforts cannot be tolerated.

Emphasizing the importance of a coordinated response to threats against national security, the AYCF leaders underscored that any attempts to obstruct these efforts will not be tolerated. They urged both governmental and non-governmental organizations to join forces in promoting transparent and effective dialogue to deter divisive narratives and protect initiatives aimed at societal growth and safety.

The AYCF is committed to working alongside government officials, security agencies, and local communities to ensure a safe and secure future for all citizens. They believe that through collaboration and shared commitment, the region can overcome adversities and pave the way for sustainable development.

The AYCF called upon citizens to remain vigilant, stay informed, and support initiatives that promote peace, unity, and security. Together, we can build a resilient society that can withstand the challenges of today and tomorrow.

The AYCF reiterated its dedication to working collaboratively with governmental and non-governmental stakeholders to foster a safer Nigeria. The organization encourages citizens to remain vigilant and supportive of initiatives that serve the greater good of the nation.

“The call for enhanced military engagement in the North must be accompanied by proactive measures to foster public trust,” the AYCF noted. The forum advocates for an inclusive approach where the government transparently communicates the objectives, coordinates dialogues with local stakeholders, and actively addresses community concerns.

Moreover, the AYCF encouraged vigilance against potential undermining forces, stressing that the fight for security transcends military deployment—it involves navigating a multifaceted landscape of both local and international actors that may seek to disrupt progress.

…Says People’s Shahada Actions long overdue

The former lawmaker,Senator Shehu Sani has praised the people and residents of Gobir Communities in Sokoto State,North-west Nigeria for heeding to call for People’s Shahada Actions and move into Forests to confront the so call daredevil bandits face to face.

In a viral video seen online , thousands of residents from Gobir in Sokoto State stormed the forest in large numbers to confront bandits who have been terrorizing their community in recent years.

In his reaction to video , the human rights activist said , it’s high time the people took over the fight against banditry frontally without fear.Stressing,”No better time for People’s Shahada Actions than now.”

Shehu Sani, who has expressed anger over killing of Emir of Gobir and the incessant cases of kidnap by ravaging bandits in the northern regions, said failure on side of security agencies to tackle issues of insecurity, especially banditry compelled him to make the call for People’s Shahada Actions as the potent solution to contain the excesses of bandits.

In a post via his Facebook handle today,Shehu Sani averred that , “The solution to the incessant and intractable problems of the cruelty and menace of Banditry in the North West is a People’s Shahada action,which is a masses movement to fumigate and disinfect their lands,forests and farms against banditry and bandits.

“This theory is aimed at permanently freeing the people from the criminality of kidnappings and killings so that they can take back their lives,their farms and schools.

“Vigilante and security agencies can all collaborate and cooperate on this in order to achieve results.
May Allah brings peace to our dear country.”

Senator Sani had in past raised alarm severally about how bandits took over the north and how they were able to establish governance structure.

His words: “Virtually now, bandits in the North West have become a state within a state.They have been able to establish governance structure in the sense that they don’t just kidnap and extort money, it has reached a point where they even install.”

He also did make frantic efforts to call on security agencies to make bold steps to solve problems Boko Haram and surging banditry before getting out of hands while he was in the Senate as a lawmaker.

He equally did same, when he made a video speaking on need to rescue the late Emir of Gobir before he was brutally killed by bandits.

But this time ,the former lawmaker rather enjoined all citizens and residents across the three geo-political regions of the north to move into Forests and dislodged all bandits.

“Enough of the killings of innocent people for no just reason. I strongly believe the People’s Shahada Actions is the best option to rid our region of bandits and criminal elements ” he emphasised .

…Says People’s Shahada Actions long overdue

The former lawmaker,Senator Shehu Sani has praised the people and residents of Gobir Communities in Sokoto State,North-west Nigeria for heeding to call for People’s Shahada Actions and move into Forests to confront the so call daredevil bandits face to face.

In a viral video seen online , thousands of residents from Gobir in Sokoto State stormed the forest in large numbers to confront bandits who have been terrorizing their community in recent years.

In his reaction to video , the human rights activist said , it’s high time the people took over the fight against banditry frontally without fear.Stressing,”No better time for People’s Shahada Actions than now.”

Shehu Sani, who has expressed anger over killing of Emir of Gobir and the incessant cases of kidnap by ravaging bandits in the northern regions, said failure on side of security agencies to tackle issues of insecurity, especially banditry compelled him to make the call for People’s Shahada Actions as the potent solution to contain the excesses of bandits.

In a post via his Facebook handle today,Shehu Sani averred that , “The solution to the incessant and intractable problems of the cruelty and menace of Banditry in the North West is a People’s Shahada action,which is a masses movement to fumigate and disinfect their lands,forests and farms against banditry and bandits.

“This theory is aimed at permanently freeing the people from the criminality of kidnappings and killings so that they can take back their lives,their farms and schools.

“Vigilante and security agencies can all collaborate and cooperate on this in order to achieve results.
May Allah brings peace to our dear country.”

Senator Sani had in past raised alarm severally about how bandits took over the north and how they were able to establish governance structure.

His words: “Virtually now, bandits in the North West have become a state within a state.They have been able to establish governance structure in the sense that they don’t just kidnap and extort money, it has reached a point where they even install.”

He also did make frantic efforts to call on security agencies to make bold steps to solve problems Boko Haram and surging banditry before getting out of hands while he was in the Senate as a lawmaker.

He equally did same, when he made a video speaking on need to rescue the late Emir of Gobir before he was brutally killed by bandits.

But this time ,the former lawmaker rather enjoined all citizens and residents across the three geo-political regions of the north to move into Forests and dislodged all bandits.

“Enough of the killings of innocent people for no just reason. I strongly believe the People’s Shahada Actions is the best option to rid our region of bandits and criminal elements ” he emphasised .

By Abdul-Azeez Suleiman

The recent resurgence of diphtheria in the Tukur-Tukur community in Zaria serves as an urgent clarion call for public health stakeholders in Nigeria. This tragic outbreak, marked by the loss of five children in a mere 24-hour span, underscores the authentic and perennial threats posed by infectious diseases. The alarming symptoms observed—severe throat infections, pronounced breathing difficulties, and notable cutaneous manifestations—have placed families and health officials on high alert, casting a dark shadow of a potential epidemic over not just Tukur-Tukur, but potentially the broader Nigerian landscape.
Historically, Nigeria has made commendable strides in controlling diphtheria through extensive immunization campaigns. Nonetheless, recent epidemiological trends and enduring socioeconomic challenges have rendered the fading specter of this once-controlled disease alarmingly potent. On a biological front, diphtheria is caused by Corynebacterium diphtheriae, which secretes a virulent exotoxin capable of inducing severe systemic complications. The primary mode of transmission, facilitated via respiratory droplets, complicates containment efforts, particularly within densely populated regions where human interactions are frequent and close.
The unsettling outbreak in Tukur-Tukur, confirmed by health authorities including Dr. Bello Jamo, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board, marks a broader, disturbing trend prevalent across Nigeria. Data indicates that multiple states—Kano, Yobe, Bauchi, Katsina, Borno, and Jigawa—have reported confirmed cases of diphtheria since the beginning of 2023, painting a somber picture of an outbreak that is both expansive and alarming. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has documented over 20,000 suspected cases, with a staggering 12,000 confirmed, alongside a concerning fatality rate of 4.6%. This situation necessitates prompt and decisive action from public health systems at multiple levels.
Several interlinked factors converge to facilitate the resurgence of diphtheria, primarily a notable decline in vaccination coverage. Most disquietingly, approximately 69.4% of confirmed cases reside within children aged 1 to 14 years. Inadequate access to diphtheria antitoxin and limited diagnostic capabilities in many healthcare facilities compound the crisis; startlingly, only 26.5% of confirmed cases had adhered to the necessary diphtheria vaccination schedule. To mitigate future outbreaks and safeguard public health, the ramifications of community reluctance surrounding vaccination initiatives must be tackled urgently.
The current resurgence is not isolated; it embodies broader public health challenges that Nigeria continues to confront. On December 1, 2022, the NCDC reported suspected outbreaks in Lagos and Kano states, and by January 2023, diphtheria had spread to other regions—including Osun and Yobe. The statistics are staggering, with over 20,000 suspected cases and approximately 12,086 confirmed cases reported by December 3, 2023. Vulnerable populations, particularly children aged 1-14, account for 69.4% of these confirmed cases, indicating an urgent need for targeted public health interventions.
Given these multi-layered challenges, formulating effective and immediate response measures is imperative to mitigate the outbreak’s impact. A multifaceted strategy, integrating both immediate public health interventions and long-term systemic changes, is vital for strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare framework.
A coordinated response from public health authorities—spanning local, state, and federal levels—is essential for addressing the resurgence of diphtheria. Despite initial response measures in progress, significant challenges remain across several public health domains. A robust surveillance system must be established to facilitate rapid detection and response to diphtheria cases. This involves training healthcare workers to recognize symptoms and report effectively, along with enhancing lab capabilities for precise diagnosis.
Central to combating diphtheria is an aggressive immunization strategy that emphasizes comprehensive vaccination programs targeting high-risk populations. School-based and community outreach initiatives can be employed to raise awareness and ensure vaccine access. Staunch efforts must be taken to educate communities on the critical importance of adhering to the vaccination schedule and dispelling myths that may hinder compliance.
In addition to proactive vaccination efforts, intensified public awareness campaigns are vital to curb the outbreak. The messaging should clearly articulate modes of transmission, recognizable symptoms, and the necessity for early medical intervention. Engaging local community leaders and influencers in these educational endeavors can enhance the credibility of health communications and encourage better health-seeking behaviors.
Investment in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, particularly in regions severely affected by diphtheria, is vital. Ensuring consistent supply chains for vaccines and therapeutic agents, alongside training healthcare providers in recognizing and addressing diphtheria cases, can significantly bolster the nation’s public health response.
The intricacies of addressing diphtheria call for collaboration with global health entities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Global Vaccine Alliance (Gavi). These partnerships can offer essential technical support, resources, and expertise that can enhance Nigeria’s ability to manage the outbreak effectively.
The resurgence of diphtheria in Nigeria elucidates a complex public health crisis, underpinned by a myriad of social, economic, and healthcare challenges. Addressing this pressing issue demands a coherent, collaborative approach that prioritizes vaccination, strengthens diagnostic and surveillance mechanisms, and promotes public awareness. Only through synergistic efforts engaging healthcare providers, governments, and international partners can Nigeria hope to quell this crisis, safeguard public health, and prevent future outbreaks of diphtheria.
Responding to this public health emergency necessitates strategic action informed by empirical data and the insights of the affected communities. By employing a multifaceted approach and enhancing collaboration among local, state, and international health organizations, Nigeria can strive towards ensuring a healthier future for its most vulnerable populations—particularly its children—who find themselves on the frontline of this outbreak. Through collective action and a strengthened commitment to public health, Nigeria can transform the impending threat of diphtheria from an immediate crisis into a manageable concern, thereby fortifying the well-being of its future generations.

By Ibrahim H. Tinja

In a heart-stopping display of compassion and leadership, Hon. Fatsuma Talba, Member representing Nangere/Potiskum Federal Constituency, has thrown a lifeline to the desperate flood victims in Nangere and Potiskum Local Government Areas. As the ravaging waters recede, leaving behind a trail of destruction and despair, Hon. Talba’s generous donation has brought a glimmer of hope to the affected communities.

The devastating flood disaster had left the victims on the brink of collapse, with many facing starvation, homelessness, and disease. But Hon. Talba’s timely intervention has changed the narrative, providing a safety net for the most vulnerable. Her donation of food, non-food items, and cash has been a godsend, restoring dignity and hope to the affected families.

The sheer scale of the donation is a testament to Hon. Talba’s commitment to her constituents. 170 bags of rice, 80 cartons of pasta, 170 bags of grains, and 10 cartons of vegetable oil will feed the hungry and nourish the malnourished. 170 blankets, 100 children’s wear, 170 mats, 80 women’s wrappers, and drugs will provide comfort and warmth to those who have lost everything. And the 2 million Naira cash assistance will empower the victims to rebuild their shattered lives.

In this darkest of hours, Hon. Talba’s selfless act has shone a light of hope. Her leadership and compassion have inspired a sense of resilience and determination among the affected communities. As they begin to rebuild their lives, they will never forget the heroic donation that saved them from the abyss.

Hon. Talba’s donation is more than just a gesture of kindness – it’s a beacon of hope in the midst of devastation. It’s a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there are still heroes among us, willing to go the extra mile to save others.

By Manga Mandawari

The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL) in conjunction with several Civil Society Organizations, (CSOs) support groups Wednesday carried out a peaceful solidarity rally in Abuja to declare their total and unalloyed support to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Group Chief Executive Officer (GCEO) of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) Mele Kolo Kyari.

The support rally was on the premise of several calls for President Tinubu to relief the NNPCL boss of his position on grounds of challenges facing the oil sector, a call some viewed as subtle efforts targeted at President Tinubu by enemies of the country who are committed to fighting back following the removal of the fuel subsidy by this administration.

Addressing journalists on the sideline of the peaceful support rally , the leader of the rally and Speaker of the AYAGL Ambassador Abdul DanBature said, the solidarity rally was basically to urge President Tinubu to disregard such calls as it is the handiwork of enemies of his administration.

” As a group committed to good leadership, we have seen a capable hand in the person of Mele Kyari and we will do whatever it takes legitimately to support him to continue to achieve success in the oil sector”he stressed.

” Kyari’s scorecard is impressive, and his efforts have not gone unnoticed. However, with great success comes great envy, and Kyari is now facing opposition from forces of evil who seek to tarnish his reputation.

Also, the Speaker said, the solidarity rally is to further urge Mr Kyari to continue the good works of repositioning the NNPCL towards greatness, adding that he should not be discouraged by calls for his sack by faceless individuals.

” For us, we are committed to good governance and will support any organization be it government or individual that is providing good governance and that is why we declared our support for Mele Kyari and to assure him publicly that we will always support him” Danbature said.

By Shaidu Somma

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Professionals Support Movement Group has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently call his Minister of State Defense, Mohammed Bello Matawalle, to order for using his ministerial power to intimidate, destroy, and weaken some of its party elders over frivolous accusations.

Addressing a group of journalists in Kaduna on Thursday, the group Chairman, Dr. Muazzam Lawal Sadauki (Yariman Bukkur), described the action of the Minister against some of the PDP influential leaders in the region as uncalled for.

The group condemned Matawalle’s use of power to persecute opposition leaders, particularly in the Northwest, and demanded that President Tinubu call him to order to focus on governance rather than political vendetta.

Recently, the group heard about the alleged accusation of implicating some of its party leaders with spurious accusations of collaboration with a man called Bashir Hadejia, who is now under detention by the security agencies. This, the group views as illegal and an attempt to intimidate and persecute its leaders.

The group believes that former Zamfara governor and now Minister of Defense Bello Matawalle is becoming desperate to destroy or persecute anybody perceived to be a threat to Mr. President’s political ambition ahead of 2027.

The Minister should explain to the PDP, especially in the North-West, the causes of his enmity against its leaders, especially Gen Aliyu Gusau (rtd), former governors Attahiru Bafarawa, Sule Lamido, and others, who he continually castigated or tried to bring down because of their opposition to APC.

Many of the party’s political leaders, including former governors, a retired army officer, and serving governors, have been marked to be relegated and implicated either because of their allegiances to PDP or are not in good names with the Presidency.

Since after the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria solidarity rallies, some of the party’s supporters are now targeted or becoming victims of harassment by certain people in the APC-led government, more especially in the northwest.

The group wants to remind Mr. President to understand that government is about the people, not using power to subdue or destroy opposition because of political interest or alliance.

It is on this note that the group is reiterating its earlier demand that Mr. President should immediately call Matawalle and others in his shoes to order, by directing them to face their work so he can deliver his campaign promises to Nigerians.

The group also wants to remind President Tinubu that he should focus on governance and delivering his campaign promises to Nigerians rather than engaging in political persecution and vendetta.

The PDP Professionals Support Movement Group is calling on all well-meaning Nigerians to rise up and condemn this act of political persecution and intimidation.

The group is also calling on the international community to take note of this development and prevail on President Tinubu to stop this act of political vendetta.

In conclusion, the group is reiterating its commitment to democracy and the rule of law and will continue to speak out against any act of political persecution and intimidation.

Ronald Odinku

The Northern Integrity and Security Forum (NISF) has described recent remarks made by former Foreign Affairs Minister and Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, calling for the removal of the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Mohammed Matawalle as an unfortunate.

According to the security forum, such call coming amid the troubling climate surrounding the abduction of the Emir of Gobir of Gatawa District in Sokoto state, Alhaji Isa Muhammad Bawa and his son is not only ill-informed but also irresponsible, unstatesmanlike and alarmingly disingenuous.

The statements from the forum which was signed by the Chairman Tijjani Auwalu said, it was crucial to affirm that while the situation in Sokoto and other parts of Northern Nigeria is of utmost concern, the challenges faced are national in scale, engulfing various facets of our society—from urban centers to rural localities.

It stressed that Lamido’s attempt to limit Matawalle’s responsibilities solely to Sokoto or the North is a gross misrepresentation of the reality that security is an ongoing national issue, requiring collective efforts and shared accountability across government tiers.

“The timing and target of Lamido’s critique raise significant questions regarding his underlying motives. It is disconcerting that Lamido chose to single out Matawalle, a junior minister, while overlooking Badaru Abubakar, the senior Defence Minister, who coincidentally shares the same home state of Jigawa with Lamido.

“We must ask: why direct unrelenting attacks towards a loyal ally of President Tinubu, while seemingly absolving a senior counterpart? Such selective criticism indicates a strategic maneuver aimed at undermining the political framework supporting our President, rather than a genuine concern for the nation’s security.

“Moreover, the contrasting nature of Lamido’s recent expressions of empathy for a singular Emir in captivity stands in stark contradiction to his silence throughout the years of suffering endured by ordinary Zamfara communities and other ordinary Nigerians”.

The forum noted that thousands have fallen victim to heinous acts of abduction, torture, extortion, and displacement over the past two decades and the absence of Lamido’s voice in addressing these widespread tragedies all this while raises concerns about his commitment to empathy and meaningful advocacy for the Nigerian people.

This singular attack on Matawalle cannot be detached from the backdrop of emerging investigations of Bashir Hadejiya, linked to serious criminal activities including, terrorism sponsorship, gun running, and cross border crimes, the.forum stated.

“The growing panic among certain political figures, including those aligned with Lamido, reflects a desperate attempt to destabilize the current administration as these investigations unfold. NISF expects that as this inquiry progresses, more personalities with dubious affiliations will be brought to light, further revealing the motivations behind such orchestrated smear campaigns.

“It bears noting that the relentless criticism directed at Matawalle is indicative of a concerted effort by a faction of inconsequential northern politicians—of which Lamido is a prominent member—to weaken the integrity and growing influence of President Tinubu in the North”.

NISF posited that Matawalle’s unwavering allegiance to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu embodies the support necessary for a resilient governance and political structure. Hence, these attacks serve as a testament to Matawalle’s reliability and dependability, which must be subdued if these politicians wish to see President Tinubu rendered vulnerable.

“We solemnly caution that in the fullness of time, the extent of involvement of several figures in the crimes of Bashir Hadejiya would be exposed. The ongoing investigation into Bashir Hadejiya’s criminal activities will inevitably blow open the cover of those whose actions contradict their public personas”.

The forum therefore urged President Tinubu to remain steadfast and resolute against attempts to incite division within his solid support base in the North, adding that the loyalty embodied by figures such as Minister Matawalle, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Director-General of the Department of State Services, Yusuf Bichi, is indispensable to the integrity of the current administration and national security.

“The NISF stands firm in our commitment to supporting our President’s efforts of fortifying the Northern region’s security and integrity. We shall not waver in promoting a united front against any efforts to undermine our collective strength in pursuing a safer and more prosperous Nigeria” the statement added.