August 21, 2024 – Prominent leaders from northern Nigeria are gearing up for a crucial summit aimed at revitalizing the region’s political and economic influence ahead of the 2027 elections.
The announcement came on Tuesday during a meeting of the League of Northern Democrats (LND) in Abuja. The group, composed of former governors, senators, and other influential figures from the North, is focused on addressing key issues affecting the region, including political direction, economic growth, and security concerns. The summit is scheduled to take place in Kaduna.
This move comes in the wake of the 2023 general elections, which saw the presidency shift to the southern region after eight years under former President Muhammadu Buhari, a northerner. The two major southern candidates in the election were Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress and Peter Obi of the Labour Party, while the People’s Democratic Party’s candidate, Atiku Abubakar, hailed from the North.
Vice President Kashim Shettima recently indicated that the North plans to convene a high-level meeting of stakeholders, including governors, politicians, business executives, and traditional leaders, to discuss the region’s challenges. Shettima attributed the violence seen during recent protests in the North to leadership failures.
Mallam Ibrahim Shekarau, the Protem Chairman of the LND and former governor of Kano State, stated that the summit in Kaduna will serve as a platform for discussing the North’s political future, economic development, and security challenges. He emphasized that the LND’s mission is not tied to any specific political party or the 2027 elections but is focused on long-term solutions for the region.
In a communiqué signed by the LND convener, Umar Ardo, and interim secretary, Emmanuel Jime, the group stressed its commitment to unifying the North and reestablishing its dominance in national politics. The LND plans to engage a wide range of northern stakeholders, including former heads of state, vice presidents, Senate presidents, Speakers of the House of Representatives, and security chiefs, to rally support for their initiative.
“The LND resolved to prioritize the political unity of Northern Nigeria. Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and experiences within our ranks, we are committed to fostering a strong sense of community and solidarity. This unity will serve as the foundation for our efforts to reposition the North as a leading force in Nigeria’s political landscape,” the communiqué stated.
