A political activist and former member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Usman Bugaje, has lauded former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar for his pivotal role in creating the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) and repositioning northern Nigeria during his tenure.

Speaking on Tuesday in Jada, Adamawa State, Dr. Bugaje highlighted Atiku’s achievements in a paper titled: Atiku Abubakars Contribution to Democracy and Development: A Study in Vision, Dedication, and Tenacity. The presentation was part of activities marking the 2024 Atikus Week of Service.
Dr. Bugaje explained that before Atikus intervention, the North was plagued by division and fragmentation. To address this, Atiku established a committee led by the late Maitama Sule to promote reconciliation and unity across the region. This initiative ultimately led to the formation of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), which brought together various groups under one umbrella.
Atiku set up a committee under Maitama Sule to go around, reconcile, and unite the North, Bugaje said. That effort culminated in the creation of the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), which unified the region.
Dr. Bugaje also commended Atikus efforts in improving education in northern Nigeria. He noted that under Atikus guidance, the Northern Education Program (NEP) was launched at Arewa House to address the declining standard of education in the region. This initiative pushed states to set targets and raise educational standards.
In addition to education, Bugaje credited Atiku with various reforms, including resolving boundary disputes, curbing corruption, and building alliances.
Bugaje further described how Atikus inclusive leadership style fostered dialogue and engagement among northern stakeholders. He recalled an unprecedented event in Kaduna in 2000, known as Reception 2000, where Atiku brought together religious scholars, academics, business leaders, women, and youth to discuss pressing issues without restrictions or protocols.
When he emerged as the highest political officeholder in the North, there were initial concerns, particularly about some of the changes he introduced, Bugaje said. But through robust and inclusive engagement at Reception 2000, Atiku informed and involved the North in ways never seen before.
Bugaje concluded by praising Atikus vision, dedication, and tenacity, which he said continue to shape democracy and development in Nigeria.