Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial
Foundation Advocates for Entrepreneurship Over Protests Among Northern Youth
By Hussaina Yakubu
July 24, 2024
The Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation has called on Northern Nigerian youth to avoid protests and instead seek proper channels to address their grievances.
During a one-day Arewa Youth Assembly themed “Fuel Your Creativity: Choosing Entrepreneurship for Progress,” the Managing Director of the Foundation, Engr. Abubakar Umar, emphasized the importance of lawfulness and entrepreneurship.
He encouraged the youth to be self-reliant and reduce over-reliance on the government for employment.
The assembly aimed to sensitize youth groups from the 19 Northern states about the benefits of entrepreneurship and self-sustainability, especially in light of recent calls for protests.
Engr. Umar highlighted the destructive consequences of past protests, such as the End SARS protests, which resulted in significant property damage and loss of lives.
He urged the youth to channel their grievances through legal and constructive means, emphasizing dialogue with leaders as a more effective approach.
“We must come together and fashion a Marshall Plan for the development of the North West.
Our plan must be people-driven and all-inclusive,” Umar stated.
Sanusi Maikudi, a guest speaker at the event, underscored the importance of entrepreneurship for reaching prosperity.
He cautioned the youth against being manipulated by political interests and stressed the need for self-reliance and peaceful coexistence.
The convener of the Arewa Think Tank, Alhaji Muhammad Yakubu, expressed gratitude to the Sir Ahmadu Bello Memorial Foundation for their collaboration in the event.
He urged the youth to embrace entrepreneurship and reduce dependence on government jobs, fostering economic development and personal fulfillment.
Religious leaders Dr. Adams Almanar and Sheikh Ibrahim Disina also addressed the assembly, warning against the repercussions of protests.urging the youth to engage in prayer and peaceful dialogue.
Dr. Almanar highlighted the destructive potential of protests and called for patience and understanding in addressing national issues.
Mr. Saleh Momale, Executive Vice Chairman of the Kaduna Peace Commission, reiterated the importance of listening to leaders and focusing on entrepreneurship and family for community peace. He advised the youth to avoid any calls for unrest spread through social media.
The foundation’s stance against protests and its advocacy for entrepreneurship and constructive engagement reflects its commitment to the progress and stability of Northern Nigeria.
(NAN)