Many voices in northern Nigeria still unheard – Nabila
KANO, Nigeria — Nabila Yusuf Ahmad, convener of the Grand Arewa Twitter Connect, called for increased inclusion of young people in discussions regarding their future during a recent youth gathering in Kano. The event aimed to provide a platform for the voices of Northern Nigeria’s youth, which Ahmad described as largely unheard.
The gathering, attended by participants from various states, facilitated networking and idea-sharing among the youth. Ahmad emphasized the need for a unified voice from Northern Nigeria, citing a decline in connectivity among young people in the region.
“There are so many voices that are not heard,” she stated. “We need to have one strong voice for Northern Nigeria.” She added that historically strong connections among youth have faded, prompting the need for renewed collaboration.
Ahmad highlighted that unity is essential for addressing pressing issues such as unemployment and insecurity. “If you look around, people are already connecting and building relationships,” she said.
Despite the enthusiasm displayed by participants, Ahmad acknowledged that financial constraints hindered some from attending the event.
Entrepreneur Aliyu Muhammad, known as Sarkin Mota, also addressed attendees, underscoring the importance of national unity. “We often say North, we say South, but the truth is the North cannot win alone and the South cannot succeed alone. If Nigeria fails, we all fail together,” he remarked.
Sarkin Mota criticized the negative use of social media among young people, stating that it is often employed for divisive purposes rather than constructive engagement. “We use X to drag instead of to build,” he noted. “Clout will make you popular, but only value will make you powerful.”
He urged young Nigerians to prioritize building supportive relationships and acknowledged the potential within their generation, stating they require better direction to harness their energy effectively.
