By Peter Adelowo
The 2027 presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Prince Adewole Adebayo, has called for unity, responsible leadership and people-driven governance as critical solutions to insecurity and underdevelopment in Northern Nigeria.
Speaking at the Arewa Awareness Summit on Unity Against Insecurity in Kaduna State, Adebayo said the region possesses the human and material resources needed to overcome its challenges.
He stressed that the focus should shift from identifying problems to implementing practical solutions.
The SDP Presidential candidate described the security and socio-economic challenges facing the North as collective national concerns, insisting that every Nigerian has a responsibility to contribute to resolving them.
Adebayo noted that Northern Nigeria is home not only to those born in the region but also to those who have chosen to make it their home.
Reflecting on his personal journey, he said he had lived in the North for over two decades, including ten years in public service, describing himself as a Northerner by choice.
According to him, Northern Nigeria remains strategic to the future of Nigeria, the Sahel and West Africa, with its growing population representing a valuable asset capable of driving economic growth and national development if properly harnessed.
The SDP presidential candidate argued that many countries facing declining populations are investing heavily in building human capital, urging Nigeria to view its youthful population as a strength rather than a burden.
He maintained that effective leadership and good governance could significantly address many of Nigeria’s challenges within a relatively short period, adding that the region already has the knowledge, expertise and leadership capacity required to chart a new course.
Adebayo commended scholars, traditional rulers and stakeholders for analysing the causes of insecurity but urged them to move beyond diagnosis by developing and implementing sustainable solutions.
He reminded participants that democracy gives citizens the power to elect leaders who understand their needs, urging Nigerians to support competent, accountable and compassionate leaders at all levels of government.
The SDP flag bearer also called for greater investment in agriculture, describing the sector as a major source of employment, wealth creation and food security capable of transforming the North’s economy.
He identified corruption as a major obstacle to national progress, warning that no policy or institutional reform would succeed without transparency, accountability and integrity in public service.
On education, Adebayo expressed concern over the large number of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria, calling for increased investment in quality education to equip young people with the knowledge and skills needed for national development.
Prince Adebayo urged Nigerians not to lose hope, insisting that the country’s challenges are surmountable through unity, visionary leadership, accountable governance and active citizen participation.
The Arewa Awareness Summit brought together traditional rulers, academics, political leaders, professionals and other stakeholders to discuss strategies for promoting unity and addressing insecurity across Northern Nigeria.
