By Abdullahi Alhassan
Kaduna, Nigeria - September 22, 2025(Series News Online)
The Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative (ACI) has issued a passionate plea for immediate action to address the growing insecurity in Northern Nigeria. Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna on the occasion of the 2025 International Day of Peace, ACI's Director General, Dr. Abdullahi Idris, emphasized that the region's persistent conflicts, banditry, terrorism, and violent rivalries have resulted in significant human suffering and loss.
"Time for complacency is over," Dr. Idris declared. "The situation in states such as Zamfara, Kaduna, Katsina, Plateau, and Benue is dire, with armed groups continuing to wreak havoc on communities." ACI urged the Federal Government to move beyond rhetoric and take concrete actions to protect lives and foster peaceful coexistence.
The initiative stressed the need to reject division and promote dialogue, celebrating diversity and addressing grievances constructively to bring communities together. "Peace requires justice, opportunity, and dignity," Dr. Idris emphasized. "Citizens must demand their rights to life, education, healthcare, and development."
ACI called on security agencies to act decisively on intelligence and strengthen coordination to protect citizens. The initiative also urged leaders, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and state governors, to demonstrate real leadership by visiting victims, comforting the bereaved, and empowering security agencies.
"We pledge to champion good governance, encourage active citizen participation, and promote community-driven peacebuilding," Dr. Idris said. ACI emphasized that peace is not a luxury but a necessity for survival and progress, calling for urgent collective action to address the country's security challenges.
"Act Now for a Peaceful North, a Peaceful Nigeria, and a Peaceful World," ACI urged, highlighting the imperative of working together to restore peace and stability in the region.
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Insecurity