The Chairman Senate Committee on Army, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua on Thursday emerged as the new chairman of the Northern Senators’ Forum.
The emergence of Yar’Adua, followed the resignation of the former chairman of the forum, Senator Abdul Ningi (Bauchi Central, PDP).
Recall, Ningi was suspended on Tuesday by the Nigerian Senate, sequel to an interview he granted the BBC Hausa Service over alleged padding of the 2024 budget.
Rising from a meeting on Thursday, the forum elected the Katsina central senatorial district lawmaker to pilot affairs of the forum.
In a speech shortly after his emergence, Yar’Adua said the major objective of the forum is to promote the interest of Nigeria first, followed by development of the North through collaboration with southern senators.
He added that the forum will cooperate with the executive arm of government to ensure that the challenges of the region are attended to.
“We Shall therefore work in consultation with our distinguished colleagues to preserve the unity and progress of our dear nation.
“In advancing these noble objectives, I am committed to streamlined activities within the Northern Senators’ Forum. We shall operate with transparency, accountability, and integrity, upholding the trust placed on us by the electorate.
“Our legislative discourse will continue to be characterized by civility, dignity, and adherence to the rule of law as we fulfill our lawmaking, policy-making,and oversight functions.
“I am confident that with our collective efforts and cooperation, we can effect positive change, uplift the North, and contribute to the overall development of our great nation. Together, let us embark on this journey with unwavering dedication and a steadfast commitment to serving our constituents and our country”.
He however acknowledged and commended what he called decent outing and the contributions Senator Ningi made during his tenure.
“I am aware of the challenges facing the Northern region which include: Security, agriculture, education, healthcare, drug abuse and human trafficking. Others are so numerous to mention” Yar’Adua said.
