Kaduna- The Northern Elders Forum on Saturday said it would hold a two-day Summit beginning from Monday, to discuss security, politics and socio-economic development of the region.
Prof. Ango Abdullahi, Chairman, Organizing Committee of the summit said at a press briefing in Kaduna that the event would also articulate the region’s stand on calls for the restructuring of the country.
Abdullahi said the summit, which would hold at Arewa House, Kaduna, was expected to generate discussions on the general state of the nation.
Issues bordering on the security situation with regards to Boko Haram, militancy, banditry, robbery, herdsmen/farmers clash and kidnapping would also be assessed, he added.
The “pervasive poverty and economic hardship, and economic policies of the country” would also be discussed.
“We shall discuss the issues of corruption created and promoted by the existing political system, loud voices and calls for re-structuring of the country and in some cases demand for cessation of some parts.
“The summit will discuss the unhealthy relationship between the three arms of government and the likely consequences as well as review amendment of the 1999 Constitution.“
He said the summit would come up with alternative solutions on investments to reduce over dependence on government.
Abdullahi said at the end of the event, a blueprint for the development of the region would be articulated.
“The multi-dimensional challenges facing the country and indeed the northern Nigeria though non-exhaustive, have made this year’s summit even more imperative and compulsive.
“Mallam Adamu Fika, Chairman Board of Trustees of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) is expected to serve as chairman of the summit.
“Others are Professor Attahiru Jega who will serve as Chairman of the Unity, Faith and Development in Nigeria, a Night session, while Maj.-Gen. Paul Tarfa, (rtd) will serve as Chairman of `Restructuring Nigeria: How should the North Respond session.’
