Prioritise Security, Babangida Aliyu Tells Northern Governors, Others

A former governor of Niger State and chairman of the Board of Trustees, Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SAMF), Dr Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu, has expressed deep concern over the growing insecurity in the country.

Aliyu called on governments to prioritise security over infrastructure, noting that flyovers and physical projects cannot replace the fundamental obligation of securing the citizens.

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

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

Aliyu stated this in his remarks at a dinner organised by the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation (SABMF) in Kaduna to celebrate his 70th birthday, where eminent Nigerians and his associates gathered to honour him.

The former governor said the rising cases of killings, kidnappings and general insecurity were unacceptable, stressing that the primary responsibility of any government remains the protection of life 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, recalling how a single murder in the old northern region once sent shockwaves across communities because the region respected human life.”

Reflecting on the values of the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, he noted that 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, while thanking the foundation for honouring him despite 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 from bitterness, malice and jealousy, advising that daily self-assessment was key to living a long and fulfilling life.

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

The director-general of the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation, 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 Governor of Niger State.

The Iyan Zazzau and deputy chairman, BoT of SAMF, Munnir Jafaru, also lauded the pivotal role played by Aliyu in the formation and growth of the foundation.

Jafaru recalled their years of working closely together, noting 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.