The Bauchi Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (BACCIMA) has alleged that Northern Nigeria is facing systematic marginalization and neglect, which is threatening the collapse of critical infrastructure in the region.
BACCIMA President, Alhaji Aminu Muhammad Dammalikin, made this known during a press conference in Bauchi. He stated that the North is struggling with unreliable electricity, deteriorating roads, insecurity, and a generation of youth who lack jobs and hope for the future.
"We are not here to cry; we are here to lead, propose solutions, demand equity, and take responsibility for shaping our own future," Aminu said.
He emphasized that the survival of the North is not just a regional issue but a national imperative. Aminu called for cooperation among governors, national and state legislatures, traditional rulers, the business community, academicians, and all stakeholders to join hands in championing a new agenda for the region.
Aminu also raised concerns about the oil discovery in the North, particularly in Kolmani and other basins. He lamented that despite the discovery of oil in Bauchi, the current administration has not made any visible effort to commence the lifting of the discovered oil.
The BACCIMA President called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure an equitable expansion of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) infrastructure across Northern Nigeria. He emphasized that the North stands to lose out economically, socially, and strategically if the CNG initiative is not established in the region.
Aminu also expressed concern over the stalemate in the construction of the Mambila Hydroelectric Power Project in Taraba state. He noted that the project has been stalled due to a prolonged legal dispute between the Federal Government and Sunrise Power and Transmission Company Limited.
The Chamber President urged the Federal Government to investigate and expose the sponsors of insecurity in the North, saying that peace is not a privilege but a right.
"We call on the Federal Government, intelligent agencies, and our international partners to investigate and expose the sponsors of insecurity which the Federal Government knows of. The North must be safe for growth," Aminu said.
He emphasized that the North cannot develop in fear and called for urgent action to address the region's challenges.
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