Northern Christian Youths Laud Tinubu Over Dogara’s Appointment
A coalition of Northern Christian youth organizations has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the appointment of former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, into a prominent national position.
The groups described the move as a demonstration of inclusive governance and a step toward national unity.
In a joint statement issued to the press, the All Christian Youths in Northern Nigeria (ACYNN) and the Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) expressed their appreciation for what they called a “symbolic and strategic” decision.
They noted that Dogara’s appointment reflects a growing acknowledgment of the role Northern Christians can play in national development.
Speaking on behalf of ACYNN, national president Dominic Alancha said Dogara’s inclusion in the current administration sends a clear message that Northern Christians are recognized and trusted with national responsibilities.
He said the move follows a trend under President Tinubu, who has recently appointed several Northern Christians into key positions across federal institutions.
“This is more than just an appointment,” Alancha said. “It is a bold statement that Northern Christians, who have long felt marginalized in national politics, are not only seen but also given a seat at the table.”
Dogara, a native of Bauchi State and a Christian leader in the North, previously served as Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2015 to 2019.
He is widely respected for his legislative experience and advocacy for transparency and constitutional reforms.
Chairman of the Northern Christian Youth Professionals, Isaac Abrak, also commended the appointment, stating it had renewed hope among Christian communities in the Middle Belt and northern states.
He emphasized that the decision demonstrates Tinubu’s recognition of the importance of Christian leaders in Nigeria’s governance structure.
“For years, we have struggled with feelings of exclusion and underrepresentation. President Tinubu’s decision to appoint someone of Dogara’s caliber reassures us that the current administration values inclusivity,”
He also noted earlier appointments made by the President, including that of General Christopher Musa as Chief of Defence Staff and Bishop Matthew Kukah as Pro-Chancellor of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia, Kaduna State.
The Muslim-Muslim ticket adopted by the Tinubu-Shettima campaign in the 2023 elections drew criticism from Christian communities, many of whom feared political marginalization.
However, some youth leaders now believe those concerns may have been premature, given the current administration’s outreach.
“We may have misjudged his long-term intentions,” said Deborah Zakka, a youth advocate from Plateau State. “President Tinubu is beginning to demonstrate a commitment to fair representation. We hope this continues.”
Despite the praise, the youth groups called on the President to maintain the momentum and ensure that Northern Christians are not only appointed to office but are also involved in policy-making and national development.
“This must not be a one-off gesture,” Alancha added. “To build trust and unity, the government must institutionalize inclusion in every sector — governance, economy, security, and beyond.”
The appointment of Dogara has sparked widespread optimism in many Christian communities across the North. Many now see it as a turning point in the relationship between the federal government and Northern Christian populations.
