In a dramatic display of concern, President Bola Tinubu has taken center stage to address the ever-worsening security crisis in Nigeria, particularly in the beleaguered Northern region,an issue he labels as the nation’s top priority. During a recent event in Kaduna, Tinubu, represented by Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, called for a collective effort to “rebuild trust” and “restore safety,” but is this just another empty gesture?

At the 25th Anniversary of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), Tinubu emphasized that insecurity is not just a safety issue but a crisis impacting economic stability and educational progress. “Nothing troubles me more gravely than the security crisis bedeviling Nigeria,” he proclaimed, as if his words alone could mend the fabric of a nation in turmoil.

While acknowledging the complex security challenges inherited by his administration, he assured the audience that they are being tackled with “urgency and determination.” But many are left wondering: where is the tangible evidence of this commitment? Are we simply to take his word for it while the threat of terrorism and banditry continues to loom large?

With a glimmer of optimism, Tinubu looked ahead to a future where crude oil tankers might roll out from Kolmani and other Northern oil fields, suggesting that this could signal a new economic dawn. He touted infrastructure projects like the Abuja-Kaduna-Kano Superhighway as catalysts for economic activities, but critics might argue this sounds more like a sales pitch than a serious plan.

In a rallying cry, Tinubu urged Northern leaders to engage in “honest and courageous dialogue,” warning that progress is unattainable if leaders don’t protect vulnerable communities. But will this dialogue ever materialize, or is it just more political rhetoric? “We fail the day we sleep comfortably while millions sleep with empty bellies,” he cautioned, but how many times have we heard such sentiments without real action to back them up?

Despite decades of dysfunction that have caused deep fractures in Northern unity, Tinubu insists that the diversity showcased at the ACF anniversary reflects a collective resolve to resist division. He praised the ACF for being the “conscience of Northern Nigeria” for 25 years, but some might argue this conscience has been silent in the face of ongoing chaos.

As Nigeria grapples with its pressing challenges, Tinubu’s call for unity and action rings hollow for many. The question remains: will his administration step up to the plate, or will these statements fade into the background noise of political performance? Only time will tell.