The Northern Ethnic Nationality Forum (NENF), a coalition of socio-cultural and political leaders from the 19 northern states, has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently reshuffle his cabinet and overhaul the country’s security framework in response to worsening national crises.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja and signed by its Convener, Dominic Alancha, the Forum said it had “deeply examined the painful conditions of the people of Northern Nigeria and the nation at large” and, after broad consultations, resolved to demand decisive intervention from the presidency.
Expressing disappointment with the “glaring underperformance” of several ministers, the Forum argued that the current cabinet lacks the competence and political capital required to deliver on the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“A ministerial appointment is not merely a reward for loyalty; it is a critical assignment. We therefore call on President Tinubu to immediately dissolve and reshuffle the Federal Executive Council (FEC), replacing underperforming ministers with individuals of proven integrity, exceptional capability and significant political influence,” the statement read.
The group noted that a stronger cabinet would not only be vital for national development but also crucial for President Tinubu’s political survival ahead of the 2027 elections.
On insecurity, NENF decried the crippling effects of banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping on farming, commerce, and transportation, describing the situation as a “full-blown catastrophe.” It insisted that the Service Chiefs had failed despite vast resources at their disposal and called for their immediate removal. The Forum further demanded the appointment of new military leaders with clear, measurable mandates, alongside the declaration of a state of emergency on security in Northern Nigeria.
“This is not a call for militarization but for a targeted, multi-agency emergency operation to flush out terrorists, dismantle their networks, and restore order,” the Forum stressed.
While commending Tinubu’s economic reforms such as fuel subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification, the Forum urged the administration to step up measures to ease the burden on citizens. Recommendations included accelerated distribution of palliatives, major investments in agriculture and manufacturing, and visible improvements in power, transport, and infrastructure.
The group also advised the President to demonstrate empathy and share in the sacrifices of Nigerians, cautioning against a growing disconnect between citizens and government.
“We supported the President’s ambition and desire to support him again in 2027, but that support is contingent on effective, empathetic and decisive governance. The time for action is now,” the Forum declared.
What You Should Know
The Northern Ethnic Nationality Forum (NENF) has urged President Bola Tinubu to reshuffle his cabinet and declare a security emergency in Northern Nigeria.
The group cited ministerial underperformance and escalating insecurity as major threats to national stability. While commending economic reforms, the Forum stressed that future political support for Tinubu depends on urgent, decisive governance.
