25th Year Anniversary:- ACF Launches Endowment FundsFrom Aminu Suleiman In a significant demonstration of unity and resilience, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) today marked its 25th anniversary celebration in Kaduna State with the launching of an endowment fund aimed at addressing pressing issues in Northern Nigeria.
25th Year Anniversary:- ACF Launches Endowment Funds
From Aminu Suleiman
In a significant demonstration of unity and resilience, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) today marked its 25th anniversary celebration in Kaduna State with the launching of an endowment fund aimed at addressing pressing issues in Northern Nigeria.
This landmark event highlighted the diverse tribal and religious landscape of Nigeria, reinforcing the notion that the country remains united despite regional challenges.
As security concerns continue to loom large over Northern Nigeria, the anniversary celebration saw a palpable focus on the prevailing insecurity that has affected the region.
The event attracted esteemed leaders and stakeholders, all keen to address the challenges and work towards a more secure and prosperous future.
President Bola Ahmad Tinubu, represented at the event by Hon. Tajudden Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, delivered a poignant address acknowledging the serious security challenges faced by Northern Nigeria.
He emphasized the need for collective commitment among all stakeholders to overcome these issues. "We must work together as leaders to revitalize the North, ensuring that security, economic development, and education receive the attention they deserve," he stated.
Tinubu also praised the foundational work done by the ACF since its inception in 2000, commending its contributions toward unity and progress in the region.
His call for holistic collaboration resonated with the audience, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to initiatives aimed at uplifting the North, such as girl-child education, peacebuilding, and skills acquisition.
Adding to the conversation, Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, represented by his Deputy Hajiya Hadiza Balarabe Sabuwa, acknowledged the ACF's role in fostering collaboration among esteemed Arewa leaders.
She expressed Kaduna State’s readiness to work towards a stronger, collective Northern Nigeria, signaling the urgency of unified efforts in overcoming challenges facing the region.
Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko expressed his appreciation for the organizers' efforts in championing discussions that could lead to meaningful change.
He voiced optimism that the ideas generated during the meeting, if effectively implemented, would significantly address the issues plaguing the northern region. Wamakko commended the insightful speeches of notable figures, including President Tinubu, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, Alhaji Abdussamad Isiyaku Rabi'u, and General T.Y. Danjuma, among others.
He remarked on the newfound unity in the North, emphasizing the importance of working together for collective progress.
The highlight of the event was the donation drive for the ACF endowment fund, which saw significant contributions from leading business figures.
Abdussamad Rabi'u, Chairman of BUA Group of Companies, as the Chief Launcher of the fund donated 2.5 billion Naira, while Alhaji Aliko Dangote, the chairman of Dangote Group companies, also donated 2.5 billion Naira, making 5 billion Naira collectively.
Senator Abdulaziz Abubakar Yari donated 500 million Naira, while Senator Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko and 4 other associates of Senator Yari, dolled out 500 million Naira, making 1 billion Naira as announced by Senator Wamakko, who spoke on their behalf.
Other donors such as T.Y. Danjuma and Alh. Dahiru Barau Mangal donated 1 billion Naira each, and several donors donated generously to the fund.
As Northern Nigeria grapples with the challenges of insecurity and economic development, the ACF's 25th anniversary served as a crucial reminder of the strength that lies in unity and the collective commitment needed to pursue a brighter future for all.
