Northern Politics Must Focus on Development, Not Division

By Aminu Isyaku Bello, PhD (in view)

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of future elections, it is imperative for political leaders, stakeholders and citizens in Northern Nigeria to redirect public discourse towards issues that genuinely affect the lives and wellbeing of the people.

For too long, political debates in the region have been dominated by sentiments over ethnicity, religion and geographical considerations. While these factors may have historical and cultural significance, they should not overshadow the pressing challenges confronting millions of people across the North.

Today, insecurity remains one of the greatest threats to the region’s stability and development. Banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and other forms of criminality continue to disrupt livelihoods, displace communities and undermine economic activities. Political discussions should therefore focus on practical solutions to these security challenges rather than engaging in divisive and unproductive rhetoric.

Agriculture, the mainstay of the Northern economy, also deserves greater attention. Policymakers and political actors should be debating ways to improve irrigation, provide modern farming inputs, strengthen agricultural value chains and enhance access to markets. Such discussions are far more beneficial to ordinary citizens than arguments rooted in identity politics.

Similarly, the region’s quest for industrialisation cannot be achieved without steady and reliable power supply. Northern leaders must champion policies that encourage investment in energy infrastructure, support local industries and create an enabling environment for economic growth.

The education sector equally requires urgent attention. Millions of children remain out of school, while many educational institutions face challenges relating to infrastructure, funding and quality. Any serious political conversation about the future of the North must prioritise strategies for improving access to quality education and developing the skills needed for a competitive economy.

Job creation is another critical issue that should dominate political discourse. With a rapidly growing youth population, governments at all levels must be held accountable for policies that promote entrepreneurship, attract investment and generate sustainable employment opportunities.

Healthcare is no less important. Access to affordable and quality healthcare services remains a challenge for many communities. Political leaders should therefore focus on strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving service delivery and ensuring that citizens have access to essential medical care.

Ultimately, leadership selection should be guided by competence, vision, integrity and capacity to deliver results. The fundamental question should not be where a candidate comes from or what religion he professes. Rather, the focus should be on what he can do to improve security, create jobs, strengthen education, boost healthcare and advance economic prosperity.

The future of Northern Nigeria depends on a shift from primitive politics to issue-based politics. By concentrating on development-oriented discussions and demanding accountable leadership, the region can unlock its vast potential and secure a better future for generations to come.Byline: Aminu Isyaku Bello, PhD (in view), is a public affairs commentator.