“North now has 19 Sardaunas, but lacks peace,” Aliyu laments growing insecurity

By Hussaina Yakubu

Former Niger Governor Babangida Aliyu has expressed deep concern over the growing level of insecurity, especially in the Northern part of the country.

Aliyu who is also the chairman of Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SAMF), made the remarks at a dinner organised by the foundation in Kaduna to celebrate his 70th birthday.

Speaking at the dinner attended by eminent Nigerians, former Governors, and associates who gathered in his honour, Aliyu said there is the urgent to improve security across Nigeria.

He lamented that ‘the North now has 19 Sardaunas but lacks the peace and order once associated with the late Premier of Northern Nigeria.”

The former governor said the rising incidents of killings, kidnappings and general insecurity were unacceptable, stressing that the primary responsibility of any government remained the protection of lives and property.

“Today, we have 19 Sardaunas in name, but what are we hearing now? The level of insecurity, particularly in recent times, is troubling,” he said.

Aliyu recalled how a single murder in the old Northern region once sent shockwaves across communities because of the region’s respect for human life.

He called on governments to prioritise security over infrastructure stating, “flyovers and physical projects cannot replace the fundamental obligation of securing citizens.

“Anytime you come to construct flyovers or whatever may be infrastructure, but your core responsibility is to protect the lives of the people.”

Reflecting on the values of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, he said the Sardauna governed with integrity, sacrifice and selflessness, leaving behind neither mansions nor personal wealth, but a legacy of discipline and equitable leadership.

The celebrant, who described himself as “70 years plus 13 days,” said he had entered a phase of deeper reflection, gratitude and commitment to seeking forgiveness from his Creator.

He thanked the foundation for honouring him in spite of his initial reluctance.
Aliyu recalled his early educational journey and the era of free and quality schooling funded under the leadership vision of Sir Ahmadu Bello.

He said the North must rediscover that legacy of purposeful governance, discipline and investment in education.

He urged Nigerians to embrace a life free of bitterness, malice and jealousy, advising that daily self assessment was key to living long and living well.

“Review your day before you sleep. If your good deeds outweigh the bad, you will live longer,” he said.

The Director -General of the foundation, Mr Gambo Abubakar, read a citation detailing Aliyu’s distinguished public service career, from his days as a teacher to his rise as a Permanent Secretary, member of the House of Representatives and later a Governor.

He described Aliyu as a statesman of rare integrity whose leadership of the foundation had deepened its work in education, policy dialogue, humanitarian support and youth development across the North.

Iyan Zazzau and Deputy Chairman, BOT (SAMF), Munnir Jafaru, lauded the pivotal role played by Aliyu in the formation and growth of the foundation.

Jafaru recalled their years of working closely together, adding that their shared commitment to leadership and Northern development ultimately gave birth to the establishment of SAMF.

He described Aliyu as a founding father of the foundation and an instrumental force behind its vision and direction.
Jafaru wished the “Chief Servant” good health and many more decades of impactful service, expressing optimism that his leadership contributions would continue to shape the organisation for another 70 years and beyond.

The former Governor of Kogi, retired Capt. Idris Wada, who also spoke at the event, praised Aliyu as a sincere, hardworking and super intelligent leader who always created an environment for people around him to thrive.

He wished him “another 70 years in good health and Allah’s guidance.”

Other well wishers included Hon. Timothy Anjide from Nasarawa State and members of the Board of Trustees, who described the celebrant as a fair, principled and visionary leader.

They highlighted his humility, humour and unwavering commitment to service.

Hajiya Rabi Saulawa of Jam’iyar Matan Arewa commended Aliyu’s courage and honesty, noting that the North “needs voices like his to keep us in line and ensure we get things right.”

Dr. Haruna Jumare,Director ,Finance and Administration, speaking on behalf of the foundation’s management, celebrated Aliyu’s lifetime of service.

He described him as a builder of people, a mentor and a champion of justice whose impact would remain indelible across Nigeria.(NAN)