Senator Shehu Sani, former representative for Kaduna Central, has passionately argued that the high levels of poverty and hunger in Nigeria’s northern region are not the result of any natural disaster or divine will. Instead, Sani pointed to the “human mismanagement” of the region’s vast resources as the primary cause of its persistent economic struggles.
Sani’s remarks came during a speech to staff of the New Nigerian Newspapers (NNN) in Kaduna on Wednesday, where he called on northern stakeholders to embrace national reforms without fear. He specifically criticized northern political leaders for their failure to address the region’s challenges, despite its immense wealth in both human capital and natural resources.
“The North has no reason to be poor. We have the resources, the population, and a favorable climate. Our poverty is not a result of any divine force but the result of mismanagement by those in power,” Sani declared emphatically. “This poverty is man-made, and it is avoidable if we have the will to fix it,” he added, challenging the status quo in the region.
While highlighting the struggles of ordinary northern Nigerians, Sani did not shy away from pointing fingers at the elite class, particularly those who have prospered thanks to past investments from Nigerian statesmen such as the late Sardauna of Sokoto.
“The leaders of today in the North have directly benefited from the investments made by the Sardauna,” Sani said. “Now is the time for them to give back to the very communities that helped create the wealth they enjoy.”
He lamented the growing disparity between the region’s leaders and its citizens, pointing out that while many political figures have amassed significant wealth, they have turned a blind eye to the needs of their people. Sani went further to say that many politicians who once struggled to afford basic education now send their children to prestigious schools abroad, further emphasizing the disconnect between the ruling class and the poor.
“There is no president, governor, or lawmaker who has not benefited from the generosity of Nigeria,” Sani remarked. “Most of them came from humble beginnings, with parents who could not afford to send them to school. It is only now, after acquiring wealth, that they send their children to study overseas and seek medical care abroad.”
Sani’s statements are a direct critique of northern political leaders, who he believes have failed to use their power and influence to address the systemic issues of poverty, unemployment, and poor infrastructure in the region.
His call to action is for these leaders to reflect on their own humble beginnings and recognize the importance of giving back to their communities. “It is time for the leaders to remember where they came from and return the favor to those who have supported them,” he urged.
Contextual and Background Information:
Sani’s comments come at a time when the North remains one of the poorest regions in Nigeria. Despite having large tracts of arable land, access to natural resources such as oil, and a population that constitutes a significant portion of Nigeria’s total, the region faces stark economic challenges. These include high rates of illiteracy, limited access to healthcare, and widespread poverty.
The late Sardauna of Sokoto, who Sani frequently referenced, was a key figure in the Northern Nigerian political landscape. As a prominent leader in the 1950s and 1960s, he played a significant role in shaping Nigeria’s northern region through education, development, and social investment. Sani’s call for leaders to emulate his example is seen as an attempt to revive the region’s long-standing emphasis on education and community welfare.
For decades, the North has been at the forefront of discussions surrounding national reform, particularly in terms of economic restructuring, education, and governance. While the region has produced a number of prominent political figures, including former heads of state, its economic performance has lagged behind other regions.
Sani, a former senator, is well-known for his outspoken views on governance and has consistently criticized both regional and national leaders for failing to address the pressing issues affecting Nigeria’s development. His remarks, often sharp and pointed, have earned him both praise and criticism from various quarters, but he remains steadfast in his belief that true change can only come through collective effort and genuine leadership.
Northern Nigeria’s Struggles:
The challenges faced by Northern Nigeria are multifaceted. Despite the region’s wealth of resources, the lack of political will and effective leadership has stunted economic growth. For years, northern Nigeria has faced a number of issues, including inadequate infrastructure, poor education systems, and a high level of insecurity caused by extremist groups such as Boko Haram. These challenges have contributed to widespread poverty, which has been exacerbated by limited opportunities for youth and women.
With a population of over 200 million people, Nigeria’s northern region holds significant potential to drive national development. Yet, many believe that political leaders in the region have failed to capitalize on the potential of their human and natural resources. The ongoing calls for reform, especially in terms of governance and resource allocation, have gained traction as more Nigerians, including Sani, demand greater accountability and investment in the region’s development.
Sani’s Call for Reform:
In his speech, Sani also highlighted the need for reform across Nigeria. “The North has no reason to fear any reform,” he said, reiterating that the region has everything it needs to prosper, provided its leaders are willing to invest in the welfare of the people.
He also noted that reform is not something that should be feared by any part of the country. Sani encouraged northern leaders to embrace change, especially when it comes to investing in education, infrastructure, and healthcare. The youth, he argued, are the future of the region, and they need the necessary tools to succeed.
“It is time for us to build a new Northern Nigeria — one that is not dependent on handouts, but one that thrives through innovation and hard work,” he said.
