…as Northern Bridge Builders Forum storms Akure today
•Group insists President Tinubu deserves another term
By Bukola Olamona
There are indications that key leaders in Nigeria’s northern parts have shouldered the push for national cohesion and unity, as they begin nationwide consultations, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Consequently, a nine-member delegation of the Northern Bridge Builders Forum, the flagship for the move, will today, visit Akure, the Ondo State capital, for a meeting with Afenifere leaders.
The forum will also pay a courtesy visit to the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the leader of the delegation, Joel Dantami lkenya and made available to The Hope
According to the statement, the Forum comprising distinguished and accomplished personalities from the 19 Northern states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) is committed to promoting peaceful co-existence, national unity and development across the country.
The group also expressed its support for the re-election bid of President Bola Tinubu, describing his policies and reform agenda as visionary steps capable of guaranteeing a brighter future for Nigeria.
Leading the delegation is Senator Joel Danlami Ikenya from Taraba State, who serves as the Convener and Chairman of the Forum.
Ikenya is a two-term member of the State House of Assembly, former member of the House of Representatives, former senator, and former Minister of Labour.
Other members of the delegation include Senator Danjuma La’ah from Kaduna State, a two-term senator and business mogul; Professor Nora Ladi Daduut from Plateau State, a former senator and university don; and Senator Binta Masi Garba from Adamawa State, a two-term member of the House of Representatives, former senator, and former APC state chairman.
Also on the team are Hon. Tervase Orbunde from Benue State, a former council and ALGON chairman, former member of the House of Representatives, and two-term Chief of Staff to the governor; Rear Admiral I.Y. Pani (Rtd.) from Kebbi State, an accomplished naval officer; and Senator J. Lidani from Gombe State, a former senator and former deputy governor.
The delegation also includes James Bala Ngilari, a former member of the Constituent Assembly, member of the Oputa Panel, former member of the House of Representatives, former deputy governor, and former governor of Adamawa State.
Joseph Akaku from Taraba State, who serves as Special Assistant to the Convener and Chairman, is also part of the delegation.