The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF), a prominent Northern Nigerian youth organisation, has strongly condemned recent attempts to relocate key departments of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), fearing adverse consequences for Abuja’s status as the capital city and the nation’s unity.
AYCF President General, Yerima Shettima, voiced concerns over the potential ramifications, stressing that such relocations could undermine national unity, disrupt operations, inflict economic setbacks, and perpetuate regional imbalances.
Shettima stressed that Abuja’s selection as the capital was intentional to foster national unity and decentralize power, and any efforts to alter this arrangement will face strong resistance from AYCF and its supporters.
Shettima expressed disappointment with the complicit silence of the Northern elite regarding these provocations, urging them not to remain silent when the political and economic viability of Northern Nigeria is at risk.
He called on well-meaning Nigerians to speak out against these emerging arbitrary decisions.
AYCF appeals to relevant authorities to reconsider the proposed relocations, noting the potential harm to Abuja’s status and the nation at large.
The organization urges decision-makers to prioritize national unity, ensuring actions taken do not perpetuate regional imbalances or compromise the political and economic viability of Northern Nigeria.
AYCF remains committed to promoting unity and development in Northern Nigeria and the nation, pledging to continue advocating for the preservation of Abuja’s status as the capital city and resisting any attempts to undermine national unity.