The North Central Geo-political zone has demanded fairness in the distribution of resources in the country, claiming that they have been shortchanged since the return of democracy in 1999, despite the major role the region has played to those that have emerged as Presidents of Nigeria irrespective of their political affiliation.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the chief press secretary to the Governor of Niger State Mary Noel-Berje, who said the Chairman of the North Central region forum and the Governor of Niger State, Abubakar Sani Bello reveal this during his interaction with the North Central Peoples’ Forum (NCPF) at the Government House in Minna.
The governor said the North Central region wants to be given its deserved respect and be fully compensated, recognized, and its efforts during the electioneering periods in the emergence of government at the centre should be commensurate.
“We are not asking too much, but we are pleading that we should be treated fairly.
“Now, if we compare our efforts to the benefits, it does not match at all. We discussed this as governors and in some cases, we compared results of each state as against appointments, projects and investments in the North Central States”, he said.
According to him, if adequate attention is given to the zone, it will revive and boost its economic activities and its enormous potentials shall be harnessed, for the overall benefits of the country.
Governor Sani Bello added that the region has resolved that henceforth, it will demand that any presidential aspirant categorically states its plans for the region.
The Governor further call on all the various political factions in the region to unite and keep all political differences aside for the growth and progress of the country.
He spoke on insecurity, affirming that the North Central is among the regions presently battling insecurity in the country, he however appreciated the efforts of other north central governors, the presidency and the security agencies for keeping the situation in check.
He added that, as measures have been put in place to put a halt to farmers-herders clashes, all north central states have been urged to adopt grazing reserves/ranching systems to curb incessant encroachment of cattle on farms which is responsible for igniting clashes between farmers and herders, and several losses of farm produce.
Also In attendance was the former Deputy Senate President, Sen. Ibrahim Mantu, who is also the patron of the forum. Senate Mantu commended Governor Sani Bello for his stewardship as the governor of Niger state and also as the chairman of the North Central Zone.
Mantu applauded the governors’ efforts in tackling and suppressing insecurity in the state.
Mantu however, said the governor’s priority in the areas of education, health and infrastructural development in the state will be more appreciated in years to come.
He said the governor has spoken their minds as it affects the region and the forum will always compliment the efforts of the governors of the zone.
Lt. Gen (Sen) Jeremiah T. Useni, Chairman, Board of Trustee (BOT), NCPF led the group to the state.
Gen. Useni said the forum is non-partisan, with the ultimate goal of pursuing the growth and development of the zone.
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