06/08/2025
Time to Face the Truth"
Ladies and gentlemen,
Today, I want us to ask ourselves one bold question: Who is truly to blame for the underdevelopment of Northern Nigeria?
We have seen the decline, in education, healthcare, infrastructure, and security. And yet, this region has produced powerful governors, senators, ministers, even presidents. So, what happened?
Let us remember the legacy of Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto. He built schools, invested in agriculture, and united our people. He had a vision — one where the North would rise in dignity, strength, and self-reliance.
But can we say the same for today’s leaders?
Instead of progress, what we see is blame! blaming the South, blaming the West, blaming history. But the truth is clear: the North is being held down by its own leaders, those who were entrusted with the future but chose personal wealth and power instead.
Our children are on the streets with bowls, not books. Our hospitals are collapsing. Our youth are unemployed and angry. And yet, we have billionaires, powerful politicians, and influential clerics,all silent when it matters most.
It is time to stop the excuses. The North must wake up. We need leaders who will rise with courage, sacrifice, and love for their people. Leaders who will invest in education, empower women, and heal our communities.
Because until then, Northern Nigeria will remain a sleeping giant — chained, not by outsiders, but by its own gatekeepers.
Zainab Bello (DWLN)
Director Media and publicity Nigeria First
