ACF Kano Chairman Calls for Unity, Integrity in Independence Anniversary

The Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Kano State Chapter, Dr. Goni Faruk Umar, has called on Nigerians to recommit to national unity, moral values, and purposeful leadership as the country marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, Dr. Umar congratulated the government and people of Nigeria, paying tribute to the nation’s founding fathers for their sacrifices in securing independence in 1960.“Sixty-five years ago, our visionary founding fathers secured for us the priceless gift of sovereignty,” he said.

“Today, as we commemorate their triumph, we must renew our sacred covenant to safeguard their legacy and bequeath to posterity a Nigeria worthy of their dreams.”

Dr. Umar said the anniversary should serve not just as a time of celebration, but as a moment for sober reflection on the nation’s current challenges, including poverty, unemployment, insecurity, drug abuse, declining education, and the erosion of moral values.

“These adversities are not a sentence of despair; they are a clarion call to purposeful action,” he said.

The ACF chairman emphasized the need for stronger homes, urging parents to instill discipline, honesty, and patriotism in their children.

He also encouraged Nigerian youth to shun drugs and embrace education, innovation, and productivity.“To our youth, we affirm: you are the pulsating heart of this Republic. Reject the snares of drugs and despair; embrace the path of knowledge, creativity, and productivity,” he stated.

Addressing national leaders, Dr. Umar urged them to govern with integrity and vision, reminding them that history would judge their stewardship by the lives they impact and the progress they make.

He reaffirmed the ACF Kano Chapter’s commitment to promoting dialogue, education, cultural heritage, and peace across the region.

“As we hoist our cherished green-white-green standard this day, let it be a solemn reminder that independence is not an end but an eternal journey of vigilance, sacrifice, and renewal,” he concluded.

Dr. Umar ended his message with prayers for Kano State, Northern Nigeria, and the country as a whole.