By Milcah Tanimu
Religious intolerance and ethnicity are identified as fundamental factors contributing to poverty and discord in Northern Nigeria, according to former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Yayale Ahmed. Speaking at a dialogue session organized by the Arewa New Agenda, Ahmed emphasized the need for the region to address historical divisions and foster unity to overcome poverty. The forum, led by Senator Ahmad MoAllahyidi, highlighted the alarming rates of poverty, banditry, and kidnapping in the northern part of the country, urging President Bola Tinubu to address these challenges. Approximately 94 million out of Nigeria’s 218 million population live in extreme poverty, with 80% of this demographic located in the northern region.
