Stakeholders from across northern Nigeria on Wednesday called for stronger unity, collaboration and collective action to address the persistent security challenges confronting the region.

The call was made at the Northern Peace Summit organised by the Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative in Kaduna.

The summit brought together traditional rulers, religious leaders, government officials, heads of security agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, youth and women groups, academics and policy experts.

Speaking at the opening of the summit, the convener of the coalition, Abdullahi Idris, said the gathering was convened to develop practical solutions to insecurity and strengthen cooperation among stakeholders.

He said the region had continued to suffer the devastating effects of insurgency, banditry, kidnapping and other violent crimes, which had disrupted livelihoods, weakened communities and hindered socio-economic development.

“The time has come for Northern Nigeria to rise above political, ethnic and religious differences and work together for the common good,” stated Mr Idris. “We can no longer afford the luxury of blame or silence. Our collective resolve must be stronger than the challenges confronting us.”

The convener said the summit would focus on developing strategies to improve dialogue between communities and government, address the root causes of insecurity, tackle corruption and strengthen community-based peacebuilding initiatives.

He stressed the need to rebuild trust among citizens and institutions through effective coordination, intelligence sharing and grassroots vigilance.

Mr Idris also urged traditional rulers and religious leaders to play more active roles in promoting reconciliation, tolerance and peaceful coexistence.

Describing young people and women as critical stakeholders in peacebuilding, the convener said they must be actively involved in designing and implementing sustainable security solutions.

He added that the summit would move beyond discussions to produce a regional peace and security framework with clear recommendations for implementation.

According to him, the coalition also plans to institutionalise quarterly peace dialogues and establish a network of community peace and youth ambassadors to sustain engagement and monitor progress.

He expressed optimism that the initiative would help transform the narrative of Northern Nigeria from one associated with insecurity to one driven by resilience, peace and inclusive development.

The convener urged participants to contribute meaningfully to the deliberations, saying the success of the summit would depend on collective commitment to implementing its resolutions.

The summit featured participation by prominent traditional rulers, religious leaders, senior government officials, security chiefs, civil society organisations, development partners and experts in peace, security and public policy.

Participants are expected to adopt a communiqué containing recommendations aimed at strengthening regional collaboration, enhancing community security and promoting sustainable peace across Northern Nigeria.

(NAN)