“Arewa will get better post elections.” — Students Intellectual Forum (SIF)

Group photo after the inaugural session of the Students Intellectual Forum

As the 2023 general elections draw closer, the fate of Arewa continues to remain a matter of utmost concern to many citizens and experts. During its inaugural dialogue on the possibilities and challenges of Arewa after the 2023 general elections, the Students Intellectual Forum (SIF) affirmed that Arewa will get better under certain circumstances.


On 5th February 2023, a diverse group of students gathered for the first session of the Students Intellectual Forum (SIF) at the Iya Abubakar Institute of Computing, ABU Zaria to deliberate on the elections and post-election in Arewa. The participants shared their thoughts and perspectives on the current situation and the opportunities and hurdles ahead.


The discussion centered around several key topics, including the state of Arewa's security, economic stagnation, population, leadership, mindset, corruption/greed, education, and illiteracy. It was also extended into discussing the opportunities that the presidential candidates may offer to the region. 


It is not news that Arewa is facing several security challenges including terrorism, banditry, and other forms of organized crime, making security a major concern. Undoubtedly, the security of all people and their properties is crucial in bringing a new age of prosperity. Therefore, strong leadership and effective security measures that prioritize the safety of citizens and their property are crucial to tackling these issues. The participants believe that incorporating the general public in the strategy to curb spiraling terror is a critical approach to ending insecurity. 


Additionally, economic inertia is a significant problem in the region, causing difficulties for many residents to make ends meet. Participants agreed that addressing this challenge needs emphasis on generating employment, diversifying the economy, and promoting small and medium-sized businesses.


Population growth is a crucial issue that significantly inflicts pain in Arewa. Addressing this requires a focus on family planning, women's health, reproductive rights, and sustainable urbanization. By doing so, the participants agreed that the number of street children will be reduced, allowing Arewa to better meet the needs of its inhabitants.


The education crisis in Arewa and its high rate of illiteracy was a topic of intense discussion. The participants criticized the Nigerian government's lax attitude towards education. The region faces major challenges in education, with widespread illiteracy and low educational attainment. It was noted that according to UNICEF, there are 12 million children in Arewa who are not in school. To tackle this issue, efforts must be made to improve teacher training, provide access to quality education, increase the education budget allocation from 5% to the global standard of 15%, and build a robust education system to prepare students for modern challenges. Otherwise, some participants suggested that if the government cannot provide quality education for all people, it should provide an alternative that makes these children economically viable.


Additionally, leadership is a significant issue in Arewa as the region strives to cultivate leaders capable of motivating and inspiring those they serve. The participants emphasized the need for a focus on leadership development, mentorship, and establishing a culture that values and encourages leadership at all levels. 


The participants also talked about the mindset of the Arewa people. They agreed that the people's mindset is crucial in determining the future of the region. To tackle this challenge, the participants stressed the importance of shifting attitudes, fostering positive cultural values, and promoting a sense of unity and shared goals.


Once more, corruption and greed remain substantial challenges in the region, and overcoming these issues demands strong leadership, accountability, and transparency. The participants also suggested that the government should take a decisive approach to address poverty, which is a root cause of corrupt practices.


In regards to the presidential candidates, participants urged voters to evaluate their stance on crucial issues, as well as their past performance and qualifications when making their choices. All citizens must participate in a thorough and informed discussion about the Arewa's future and collaborate to ensure that the 2023 general elections result in the best interests of all Arewans.


The 2023 general elections will be a pivotal moment for Arewa, and the election's outcome will have a significant impact on the future of the region and its residents. As voters prepare to cast their ballots, they should consider the issues that will determine the region's future, including security, economic stagnation, population growth, education, leadership, illiteracy, mindset, corruption, and greed.

Signed: 
Inuwa Adamu Lawan 
General Secretary, SIF 

Sani Musa Ibrahim 
Chairman, SIF

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