Former Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, has reaffirmed that peace and harmony remain indispensable for the North’s stability as the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) marked its 25th anniversary in Kaduna. He said the region must place unity above all divisive tendencies threatening its progress.
Gowon, represented at the event by former Vice-President Namadi Sambo, noted that the ACF was founded to uphold moderation, strengthen national cohesion, and guide the North through difficult national moments.
“Unity, peace and harmony are not mere slogans. They are the oxygen for development and the foundation of our collective dignity,” the former head of state said.
He cautioned that extremists continue to exploit divisions, urging northern stakeholders to close ranks and protect the region from instability. According to him, the region cannot afford the consequences of disunity.
“Without unity we fracture. Without peace we stagnate,” he added.
Gowon maintained that the values on which the ACF was founded are still relevant today, stressing that northern leaders must recommit themselves fully to these principles in the interest of future generations.
He said peace and harmony remained the most critical pillars for the North’s stability.
