A coalition of northern youth groups has voiced its support for President Bola Tinubu's administration, affirming that his efforts to revive the economy and tackle insecurity are on track. The group criticized recent remarks by some members of the Northern Elders Forum (NEF), labeling their comments as personal and not reflective of the northern region's interests.
Comprising the Arewa Consultative Youth Movement (ACYM), Northern Youth Association of Nigeria (NYAN), and Congress of Arewa Youth for Peace and Equity (CAYPE), the coalition condemned Sen. Kabiru Marafa's criticism of Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle. Marafa had objected to Matawalle's statement calling NEF a "political paperweight" and a burden to the region.
In a press conference held in Abuja and addressed by their leaders, the groups expressed support for Matawalle and denounced Marafa's defense of NEF as hypocritical. They highlighted that some Northern Elders did not back President Tinubu's emergence and questioned Marafa's loyalty to both the government and NEF.
The coalition urged northern leaders to appreciate the current administration's efforts by contributing to the region and the nation's development. They emphasized their backing for President Tinubu's reforms, stating their belief in the eventual positive outcomes despite the challenges.
