Former Sokoto State Governor, Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa, has unveiled the Northern Star Youth Empowerment Initiative, emphasizing the urgent need for northern youth to take leadership roles in governance and development.
The initiative, launched under his chairmanship with Naja’atu Mohammed as co-leader, aims to tackle socio-economic challenges and foster unity across the northern region.
Addressing journalists at his residence in Sokoto on Tuesday, Bafarawa described the initiative as a non-political, non-tribal, and non-religious movement committed to inclusivity and empowerment.
He highlighted its primary objectives to include Empowering northern youth through education, skills training, and mentorship programs to prepare young people for leadership and self-reliance; tackling regional challenges through addressing socio-economic issues like unemployment, poverty, and regional inequality and fostering unity through promoting collaboration beyond ethnic, tribal, and religious divisions to build a stronger, united North within Nigeria’s larger framework.
Bafarawa underscored the importance of synergy between the younger and older generations, noting that progress requires mutual respect and collaboration.
He urged youth to embrace their role as the future of the region and the nation, while assuring them of the support of experienced leaders.
The Northern Star Youth Empowerment Initiative, he explained, aims to serve as a model for similar movements nationwide.
According to him, the initiative will open offices in all northern states to ensure widespread reach and impact.
It is designed to work in harmony with organizations that share its goals, including religious bodies, non-governmental organizations, and political groups, to drive collective development.
“We have no problem with anyone,” Bafarawa said. “This organization welcomes contributions and collaboration from individuals, groups, and organizations. It is about moving the region forward together.”
Built on a foundation of inclusivity, the initiative prioritizes the holistic development of youth by focusing on education, skills acquisition, and mentorship. It envisions a generation of empowered, self-reliant northern youth who are ready to lead and tackle the challenges facing their communities.
With the Northern Star Youth Empowerment Initiative gaining momentum, Bafarawa and his team hope it will inspire similar initiatives across Nigeria, fostering a wave of positive change and regional development.
