By The National Patriots
In a recent candid interview, a Northern political leader from Plateau State and House of Representatives Member, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, delivered an objective and realistic assessment of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He commended the President for bold economic reforms and, more importantly, for directing unprecedented special interventions toward Northern Nigeria and across the federation.
Unprecedented Funding to Governors
Hon. Gagdi emphasized that in Nigeria’s political history, governors have never received the scale of funding now being disbursed under Tinubu’s leadership. He noted that these allocations were designed to cushion the impact of reforms, enabling governors—who are directly responsible for the welfare of their people—to provide safety nets and relief.
President Tinubu recently released ₦330 billion to Northern Nigeria to alleviate hardship caused by subsidy removal and other reforms. In addition, one Northern governor confirmed receiving an extra ₦60 billion. Governors including Uba Sani of Kaduna, Umar Bago of Niger, Nasir Idris of Kebbi, and Bala Mohammed of Bauchi have acknowledged Tinubu’s people-centered governance.
Historical Context: 47 Years of Northern Rule
Hon. Gagdi reminded Nigerians that the North has ruled for 47 years since independence, yet remains underdeveloped. He argued it would be hypocritical to accuse Tinubu of neglect when his administration is allocating extra funds and establishing initiatives such as the Northwest Development Commission for sustainable growth.
“Northerners must hold themselves responsible,” he stated. “For decades, our own leaders and governors presided over power yet failed to deliver. President Tinubu, despite being from the Southwest, is deliberately investing in Northern Nigeria.”
Condemning Political Weaponization of Poverty
He dismissed accusations against Tinubu as unjust and politically motivated, calling them attempts to weaponize poverty. Gagdi stressed that the North overwhelmingly supported Tinubu in 2023, and the President has responded with policies and funding to ease hardship.
“The responsibility for cushioning hardship lies with governors who now have unprecedented funds,” he said. “They must step up and deliver.”
Comparative Analysis with Past Administrations
Unlike past administrations where allocations were routine, Tinubu has created special intervention windows tied directly to social safety goals. Analysts note that the ₦330 billion released to Northern Nigeria, alongside extra allocations, represents the largest targeted regional intervention in Nigeria’s democratic history.
A Call to Governors and a Northern Voice for Truth
Hon. Gagdi concluded by urging governors to take ownership of Northern development, focusing on palliatives, infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation. He warned against shifting blame to Abuja.
This frank intervention underscored that Tinubu’s presidency is one of deliberate inclusion. With historic resources already released, the real test lies in whether Northern governors will rise to the challenge.
Dr. Imran Khazaly
The National Patriots
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