…Political Hostility Cannot Deliver Progress in the North
By: Munir I. Publisher
23rd October, 2026
As Nigeria continues to grapple with economic challenges and persistent insecurity, Northern Nigeria must prioritise constructive engagement, informed political participation, and development-focused advocacy. Mahmud Hanga, a public enlightenment advocate, encourages citizens to understand the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and assess its implications beyond partisan considerations. Ultimately, the success of any government agenda should be measured by its tangible impact on the lives and livelihoods of ordinary Nigerians.
One initiative that deserves particular attention is the Federal Government’s Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) programme, which aims to provide a more affordable alternative to petrol and reduce transportation costs. Expanding access to CNG infrastructure and vehicle conversion services could help ease the financial burden on households, traders, farmers, and businesses. However, its effectiveness will depend on affordability, accessibility, adequate infrastructure, and the extent to which ordinary Nigerians benefit from its implementation.
On security, Hanga observes that successive administrations, from the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua through former Presidents Goodluck Jonathan and Muhammadu Buhari to the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, have faced significant security challenges. While this historical perspective provides useful context, it should not diminish the responsibility of every administration to protect lives and property. Public criticism must remain consistent, evidence-based, and free from regional or partisan prejudice, while the government must demonstrate measurable progress in addressing insecurity.
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Hanga also maintains that political hostility alone cannot deliver meaningful development to Northern Nigeria. Although opposition remains an essential component of democracy, constructive engagement can provide communities with opportunities to communicate their concerns, influence policy decisions, and advocate for their developmental priorities. Such engagement, however, should never be mistaken for unconditional political support. Citizens must continue to demand transparency, accountability, responsible leadership, and effective service delivery from those in positions of authority.
As the 2027 general elections approach, Northern Nigeria’s political leaders, community stakeholders, youth organisations, and civil society groups should rally around clearly defined priorities, including security, education, agriculture, employment, healthcare, and infrastructure. Beyond electoral contests and political affiliations, the region needs a coordinated development agenda supported by specific policy commitments, measurable targets, and effective mechanisms for monitoring government performance.
Northern Nigeria must translate its political influence into tangible social and economic progress. This requires sustained civic participation, evidence-based advocacy, responsible political engagement, and a willingness to hold leaders accountable for their promises and performance. Rather than allowing partisan divisions to overshadow the region’s long-term interests, stakeholders should work together to advance policies that improve the welfare of the people.
Ultimately, the Renewed Hope Agenda and any other government programme, should be assessed on its ability to deliver practical results. Northern Nigeria deserves a safer, more prosperous, and more inclusive future, where political leaders are judged not by their rhetoric, affiliations, or loyal followership, but by their commitment to addressing the region’s challenges and improving the quality of life of its people.
