Northern Elders Forum (NEF), yesterday, announced the appointment of Prof Abubakar Jiddere as its new spokesperson.
The appointment, approved by the Convener and Chairman of the Board of Trustees (BoT), Prof Ango Abdullahi (Magajin Rafin Zazzau), recognises Jiddere’s competence and dedication to the cause of the North.
Meanwhile, former spokesperson, Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, reiterated his commitment to NEF’s goals and highlighted the organisation’s rich history of advocating for the North through policy recommendations, advocacy and partnerships.
In a statement issued by the Chairman of NEF’s Management Board, Air Marshal Al-Amin Daggash (rtd), described Jiddere as a distinguished academic with a track record of excellence and commitment.
In his acceptance speech, Jiddere expressed gratitude for the appointment and reaffirmed his commitment to the goals of NEF.
He said: “I wish to state that I have humbly accepted my new appointment and responsibility as the spokesperson of NEF, a non-partisan organisation dedicated to articulating the collective interests of Northern Nigeria while fostering unity and national development across the country. I pray for Allah’s guidance and protection throughout my tenure and beyond.”
NEF congratulated Jiddere on his appointment and wished him success in the discharge of his duties.
Reacting to the leadership adjustments, Suleiman reaffirmed NEF’s commitment to remaining a united and cohesive body, capable of navigating diverse opinions while maintaining a shared focus on its goals.
Suleiman said: “The appointment of a new spokesperson and the shift in my role are procedural changes, not indicative of any underlying conflict or alteration of the forum’s core principles.
The NEF remains steadfast in its commitment to addressing the numerous challenges facing the Northern region, working tirelessly towards a brighter future for its people. The unity and strength of the NEF remain intact, and our dedication to our shared objectives remains unwavering.
“The NEF, since its inception, has played a crucial role in providing a platform for Northern leaders, intellectuals and stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and formulate strategies for addressing the multifaceted challenges facing the region.”
According to him, this involves a diverse range of activities, from advocacy and policy recommendations to facilitating collaborations with relevant bodies and civil society organisations (CSOs).
He urged stakeholders and the public to support Jiddere and reaffirmed NEF’s unity and shared vision for Northern Nigeria’s development.
Born in 1965 in Jalingo, Taraba State, Prof Jiddere has an impressive academic and professional background.
With a PhD in Political Science from Bayero University, Kano (BUK), he joined the Department of Political Science at BUK in 1993 as an Assistant Lecturer and is now a Professor of International Relations. He did his National Youth Service at the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu (1989–1990).
