***As Sen Munguno replaces Kawu as spokesperson
Following the resignation of Senator Abdul Ningi as the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum, the Forum has named Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua (Katsina Central) as his replacement.
The Forum also named Senator Muhammed Tahir Munguno (Borno North) as its new spokesperson to replace Senator Sumaila Kawu the former Spokesperson.
The announcement was made at plenary by the President of the senate Godswill Akpabio on Thursday.
It would be recalled that Senator Ningi resigned his position as the Chairman of the forum following his suspension for three Months by the Senator Akpabio led senate on Tuesday after a rowdy session
Senator Ningi had alleged that N3.7tr which is part of the N28.7trn 2024 budget that was passed by the National Assembly could not be traced to projects.
Kawu’s replacement on the other hand came as a surprise as there was no indication he resigned his position as the spokesperson of the Northern Senators Forum.
Senator Yaradua in his acceptance speech said he is deeply honored and humbled to communicate to his colleagues in the forum his acceptance as the Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum.
“I extend my heartfelt gratitude to my distinguished colleagues for this vote of confidence in me following the resignation of my distinguished elder brother Senator Abdul Ningi whom I hold in high esteem.
“I wish to acknowledge and commend the decent outing and the contributions he made during his tenure.
“I am aware of the challenges facing the Northern region which Include: Security, agriculture, education, healthcare, drug abuse and human trafficking. Others are so numerous to mention
“The major objective of the Northern Forum is to promote the interest of Nigeria first followed by development of the North through collaboration with our distinguished colleagues from the South and cooperating with the executive arm of government to ensure that the challenges of the region are attended to.
“We Shall therefore work in consultation with our distinguished colleagues to preserve the unity and progress of our dear nation.
“In advancing these noble objectives, I am committed to streamlined activities within the Northem Senators Forum. We shall operate with transparency, accountability, and integrity, upholding the trust placed on us by the electorate. Our legislative discourse will continue to be characterized by civility, dignity, and adherence to the rule of law as we fulfill our lawmaking, policy-making, and oversight functions.
“I am confident that with our collective efforts and cooperation, we can effect positive change, uplift the North, and contribute to the overall development of our great nation. Together, let us embark on this journey with unwavering dedication and a steadfast commitment to serving our constituents and our country.
“May our actions be guided by wisdom, compassion, and a shared vision for a better and brighter future