By Faith Chondol
ABUJA – The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has announced plans to initiate a broad socio-political partnership with communities across Hausa Land, aimed at strengthening security cooperation, promoting economic development, and advancing the collective interests of the majority populations in Northern Nigeria.
The proposal was contained in a statement issued on Wednesday by the spokesman of the Forum, Luka Binniyat, following remarks by the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Samaila Mera, who recently called on communities in his emirate to become more organized in confronting the growing threats of terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping.
The MBF said it strongly supports the Emir’s position, describing his intervention as courageous, patriotic, and reflective of the concerns shared by millions of Nigerians living under the constant threat of violent extremism.
According to the Forum, the Middle Belt has remained one of the regions worst affected by terrorism, insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping, suffering enormous human and economic losses over the years.
It listed Plateau, Nasarawa, Benue, Niger, Kwara, Adamawa, Gombe, Kogi, Taraba, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Southern Kaduna, Southern Kebbi, Southern Bauchi, Southern Borno, and Southern Yobe among areas that have endured persistent attacks by Boko Haram, ISWAP, bandits, and other armed groups.
The Forum argued that if a respected traditional ruler from the Hausa heartland could openly encourage lawful community vigilance and collective security efforts, communities across the Middle Belt should also begin discussions on strengthening local safety mechanisms within the provisions of the law.
The MBF further called on traditional rulers throughout the Middle Belt, regardless of ethnic or religious background, to emulate the initiative demonstrated by the Emir of Argungu.
Beyond security concerns, the Forum said it had observed a growing number of indigenous Hausa voices advocating justice, security, self-determination, and greater participation in shaping their political and economic future.
It declared that the more than 200 ethnic nationalities that make up the Middle Belt stand in solidarity with Hausa communities committed to building a peaceful, secure, democratic, and prosperous Nigeria where all groups enjoy equal rights and opportunities.
“The time has come for greater cooperation between the peoples of Hausa Land and the Middle Belt, who undeniably constitute the majority population of Northern Nigeria,” the statement said.
The Forum noted that both regions share common security and developmental challenges and should work together to improve safety, expand economic opportunities, and build a stronger political partnership capable of advancing the aspirations of ordinary citizens.
It also urged leaders and communities on both sides to engage in frank discussions on historical grievances, religious differences, and ethnic tensions, with a view to finding common ground and developing democratic solutions to shared problems.
According to the MBF, continued division only benefits entrenched interests, while closer collaboration between Hausa communities and the diverse ethnic nationalities of the Middle Belt could create a stronger platform for political inclusion, peace, and development.
The Forum disclosed that it is willing to spearhead consultations with stakeholders across both regions and hopes to convene a major Security and Political Summit before the 2027 general elections.
The proposed summit, it said, would focus on forging a common agenda on security, governance, economic development, and the future socio-political relationship between Hausa Land and the Middle Belt.
“The time to move is now,” the statement concluded.
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