By GARBA MUHAMMAD, Kaduna

Former Military President, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (rtd), has declared his full support for a new northern advocacy group, the Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative, describing it as timely and vital to the future of the region and the country.

Babangida gave his backing when he received leaders of the group at his Hilltop mansion in Minna, the Niger State capital, on Tuesday.

The Director General of Arewa Cohesion, Dr Abdullahi Idris, is among the delegation led by former Sokoto State Governor and Chairman of the group’s Board of Trustees, Alhaji (Dr) Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa.

Speaking during the visit, Bafarawa told the elder statesman that the group was conceived to serve as a rallying point for voices across the North advocating for unity, progress, and good governance. He added that the formal launch of the initiative will take place in Kaduna on July 10, 2025, and solicited Babangida’s blessing and support.

In his remarks, Babangida, popularly known as IBB, welcomed the idea, describing it as “a bold step in the right direction.” He commended the calibre of leaders behind the movement and pledged his “unflinching support” for their vision.

“I am with you,” Babangida assured. “The North and indeed Nigeria need such a group now more than ever—one that is built on credibility and committed to national unity and development.”

He urged the leadership of the initiative to remain focused and steadfast, particularly in advocating for the legitimate interests of the region while promoting peace and progress across the country.

Also speaking, the Director General of Arewa Cohesion, Dr Abdullahi Idris, thanked the former president for his fatherly guidance and support, describing the endorsement as a morale booster for the team.

The Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative is expected to bring together political, traditional, and civil society leaders across Northern Nigeria to chart a new path for the region.