Northern Nigeria Making Real Progress Under Tinubu, Says Group

A northern advocacy group has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, stating that Northern Nigeria is witnessing “real progress” under his leadership as the federal government intensifies reforms in the economy, infrastructure, and security. The Northern Nigeria Group (NNMG), in a statement released in Abuja during Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary celebrations, applauded what it described as renewed federal attention to the region. The group highlighted improvements in infrastructure development, agricultural value chains, and energy projects, saying these initiatives reflect a stronger commitment to bridging long-standing developmental gaps in the North. President Tinubu has consistently emphasized that the North remains central to his economic reform agenda. He recently reiterated that the region’s transformation is “inseparable from the future of Nigeria,” noting ongoing efforts to expand agriculture, mining, and power-sector investment across northern states. According to government officials, these measures are designed to drive industrialisation and create sustainable employment opportunities in the subregion. The administration has also pointed to encouraging macroeconomic signals, including GDP growth and improved oil output, which it argues show that ongoing reforms are beginning to stabilise public finances and attract private investment. Officials maintain that these broader national gains will ultimately strengthen economic opportunities in northern communities through both federal projects and private-sector partnerships. Regional leaders and members of the Northern Governors’ Forum have echoed these sentiments, crediting the federal government for accelerated infrastructure projects and efforts to address security concerns in some states. They have pledged to collaborate with Abuja in advancing both development and peace in the region. However, analysts caution that challenges remain. While some improvements are visible, many communities across the North continue to grapple with insecurity, food shortages, and weak social services. Recent violent incidents underscore the fragility of progress, with experts stressing that reforms must be sustained and inclusive to translate into meaningful impact on the ground. The NNMG called on northern stakeholders to work closely with the federal government to ensure transparency and effective implementation of projects, particularly in agriculture, rural electrification, and road construction, which it believes will boost trade and improve livelihoods. Observers say the coming months will be crucial in assessing the administration’s promises, with particular attention on the completion of federal projects in key northern states, levels of private investment in agriculture and mining, and measurable improvements in security.