Professor Tukur Muhammad Baba, serving as the National Publicity Secretary for the Arewa Consultative Forum, recently discussed the current standing and future trajectory of the organization, alongside the broader state of Nigerian national security. Reflecting on two decades of existence, Baba asserted that the ACF has effectively upheld its core mission of providing a unified platform for dialogue among Northern socio-cultural groups.
While acknowledging the organization has reached a position of high credibility and prominence, he noted that the group must continuously adapt its strategies to address evolving regional challenges. Addressing the internal unity of the Northern elite, he maintained that the ACF has successfully kept diverse interests within a stable framework, even acknowledging that total consensus is rarely achievable in a democratic society. The organization’s recent anniversary highlighted a strong consensus among Northern leaders regarding the urgent need to revitalize the region’s political economy and utilize its latent resources.
Regarding external affairs, Baba expressed deep skepticism toward United States intervention in Nigerian security. He argued that Nigeria’s internal security crisis requires domestic solutions, noting that the country’s military has previously demonstrated competence in international peacekeeping operations. Citing historical precedents in nations like Iraq and Libya, he questioned the underlying motives of foreign powers and suggested that external interference often fails to produce positive outcomes. Instead, he attributed the recent uptick in terrorist activity and abductions to governance deficiencies rather than a lack of international help.
Finally, Baba emphasized that the ACF maintains collaborative and friendly relationships with other regional socio-cultural bodies, such as Afenifere and Ohanaeze Ndigbo, viewing them as partners rather than adversaries. He concluded on an optimistic note, stating that despite systemic corruption and economic hardship, a sustainable and thriving Nigeria remains achievable through principled, citizen-focused leadership and a shared national commitment.
