Maryam Abacha Urges Northern Unity, Constructive Dialogue with FG to Tackle Insecurity, Poverty

Hajia Maryam Abacha has called on leaders and stakeholders across Northern Nigeria to embrace unity and adopt a coordinated approach in engaging the Federal Government to address the region’s pressing challenges.

In a statement issued from Paris on April 10, 2026, the former First Lady urged political leaders, traditional rulers, religious scholars, women and youth groups to prioritise constructive dialogue over divisive rhetoric, stressing that sustainable solutions can only be achieved through collective and strategic engagement.

She warned against the growing trend of abusive language and derogatory remarks in public discourse, noting that such actions weaken governance and hinder meaningful progress. According to her, effective engagement requires respect, unity, and a clear articulation of the people’s concerns.

“The use of invective against leaders does not serve the interests of ordinary citizens; rather, it weakens governance structures.

What is needed is constructive engagement, backed by prayers and a sincere presentation of issues that promotes unity and collective advancement,” she said.

Drawing from her experience in government, Maryam Abacha emphasised the importance of using established institutional channels to communicate grievances, rather than resorting to public confrontations through the media.

She specifically called on Northern traditional rulers to close ranks and engage the Federal Government on critical issues such as insecurity, poverty, and economic hardship affecting the region.

The former First Lady also advocated inclusive participation, urging women’s groups, business leaders, academics, youth organisations, religious figures, and security personnel of Northern origin to unite under a common platform for dialogue with the government.

She noted that sustained and coordinated advocacy through legitimate channels can compel decisive government action, particularly when stakeholders speak with one voice on shared concerns.

Maryam Abacha further encouraged public office holders at all levels—federal, state, and local—to uphold justice, equity, and a strong sense of national responsibility in the discharge of their duties.

Expressing concern over what she described as stronger cohesion among stakeholders in Southern Nigeria, she stressed the need for Northern leaders to emulate similar unity in advancing their collective interests.

She also called on the Federal Government to prioritise youth development by addressing unemployment and insecurity, noting that improving socio-economic conditions is vital for national stability.

Describing her intervention as a motherly appeal to all Nigerians, she said her message was aimed at promoting fairness, balance, and social cohesion across the country.

Maryam Abacha concluded by offering prayers for Nigeria, expressing hope for lasting peace, unity, and stability.