Abubakar Umar Balarabe

An Open Letter to All Ethnic Nationalities in Nigeria
Subject: A Call for Unity, Understanding, and Collective Action Against Terrorism and Insecurity
Dear Fellow Nigerians,
I write this letter with sincerity, respect, and a deep concern for the future of our beloved nation.
Nigeria is a country blessed with diverse ethnic groups, cultures, languages, and religions. This diversity has always been one of our greatest strengths. However, in recent years, the challenge of terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of violent crime has created fear, suspicion, and mistrust among many communities.
It is understandable that people who have suffered loss, pain, and trauma may seek explanations for the tragedies that have affected them. Yet, it is important that we do not allow the actions of criminals to define entire ethnic or religious communities.
No ethnic group in Nigeria is made up entirely of saints, and no ethnic group is made up entirely of criminals. Within every tribe, there are honorable and law-abiding citizens, just as there are individuals who choose the path of crime. The wrongdoing of a few must never become a justification for condemning millions of innocent people.
In particular, we respectfully appeal to our fellow Nigerians who may have come to view every Hausa-Fulani person with suspicion because of the activities of certain criminal elements. Such a perception is neither fair nor accurate. The overwhelming majority of Hausa-Fulani people are peaceful citizens who desire security, justice, and prosperity just like every other Nigerian.
The Hausa-Fulani community rejects and distances itself from all terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and violent extremists who attempt to hide behind its identity. Those who commit acts of terror do not represent the values, culture, or aspirations of the Hausa-Fulani people.
Likewise, individuals who claim to carry out violence in the name of Islam do not represent the teachings of the Islamic faith. Islam stands for justice, mercy, peace, and the sanctity of human life. Any person who murders innocent people, kidnaps civilians, destroys communities, or spreads fear among the population acts contrary to these principles.
It is also important to remember a painful reality: among the greatest victims of terrorism, banditry, and violent extremism in Nigeria are Hausa-Fulani communities and Muslim populations themselves. Thousands of families in Northern Nigeria have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods, and opportunities because of the same criminal elements that threaten the rest of the country. Entire villages have been displaced, children deprived of education, and communities forced to live in fear.
Therefore, this is not a struggle of one tribe against another, nor one religion against another. It is a struggle between law-abiding citizens and those who seek to destroy peace and stability.
Terrorists do not care about your ethnicity, religion, region, language, or political affiliation. Their actions have affected Nigerians from every background. Today it may be one community; tomorrow it may be another. Our security is interconnected, and our response must be united.
We therefore call upon all ethnic groups across Nigeria—Hausa, Fulani, Yoruba, Igbo, Ijaw, Kanuri, Tiv, Nupe, Ibibio, Efik, Jukun, Gwari, Idoma, and every other community—to reject hatred, stereotypes, and collective blame.
Instead, let us stand together as one people and one nation.
Let us strengthen cooperation between communities.
Let us support our security agencies with credible information.
Let us promote dialogue instead of suspicion.
Let us defend justice without prejudice.
Let us judge individuals by their actions, not by their tribe or religion.
Above all, let us unite against the common enemies of peace, security, and national progress.
History will not remember us for the divisions we inherited, but for the bridges we built. The future of Nigeria depends on our ability to see one another first as fellow human beings and fellow citizens.
May wisdom guide us, may justice unite us, and may peace prevail throughout our nation.
Yours in the service of peace, unity, and national development,

Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria

The Importance and Contributions of Youth in Using Media to Drive Political Change.

Young people play a vital role in shaping the future of any nation. In today's digital age, media has become one of the most powerful tools through which youth can influence political development, promote accountability, and encourage democratic participation. Their energy, creativity, and technological skills make them key actors in driving positive political change.

Importance of Youth Participation in Political Media:

1. Promoting Political Awareness
Youth can use traditional and digital media platforms to educate citizens about political issues, government policies, elections, and civic responsibilities. This helps create a more informed and active population.
2. Strengthening Democracy
Through media engagement, young people encourage transparency, accountability, and public participation in governance. They help ensure that leaders remain responsive to the needs of the people.
3. Amplifying Citizens' Voices
Media provides a platform for youth to highlight public concerns, advocate for marginalized communities, and bring important social and political issues to national attention.
4. Countering Misinformation
Young media practitioners can contribute to fact-checking, responsible journalism, and digital literacy campaigns, helping society distinguish between facts and false information.
5. Encouraging Peaceful Political Engagement
Media can be used to promote tolerance, dialogue, and peaceful participation in political processes, reducing tensions and preventing conflict.

Contributions Youth Can Make Through Media:

1. Investigative Journalism
Young journalists can uncover issues such as corruption, inefficiency, and abuse of power while promoting transparency and good governance.
2. Civic Education Campaigns
Youth can create educational content through radio, television, newspapers, blogs, podcasts, and social media to increase public understanding of political processes.
3. Digital Advocacy
Through social media platforms, young people can mobilize communities around important causes, encourage voter participation, and advocate for policy reforms.
4. Fact-Checking and Verification
Youth-led media initiatives can help verify political information, debunk false claims, and promote credible sources of information.
5. Public Policy Discussions
Young media professionals can organize interviews, debates, podcasts, and panel discussions that encourage constructive conversations about national issues.
6. Election Monitoring and Reporting
Media-savvy youth can contribute to election coverage by reporting developments, educating voters, and promoting peaceful electoral participation.
7. Community-Based Reporting
Young people can highlight local challenges and successes, ensuring that grassroots concerns are included in national political discussions.
8. Promoting Good Leadership
Through media content, youth can encourage integrity, competence, and accountability among political leaders while recognizing positive examples of leadership.

Challenges Youth Must Address:

-Avoid spreading unverified information.
-Maintain professionalism and ethical standards.
-Respect diverse political opinions.
-Prioritize national unity over partisan divisions.
-Develop skills in journalism, communication, digital media, and fact-checking.

Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria

Regarding Abbas Tajudeen and his previous four terms representing Zaria Federal Constituency, supporters and critics often present different arguments.

Arguments Supporters May Use For His Re-Election:

1. Infrastructure and Constituency Projects
Supporters argue that he facilitated several projects to Zaria and surrounding communities, including:
-Road rehabilitation projects
-Educational support programs
-Health-related interventions
-Water and electrification projects in some communities
-Empowerment programs for youths and women.

As Speaker of the House, many supporters believe his current position gives the constituency greater national influence and access to federal opportunities.

2. Legislative Experience
Having spent multiple terms in the National Assembly, supporters may argue that:
-He understands legislative processes deeply.
-Seniority can attract federal attention and resources.
-His emergence as Speaker increased Kaduna State’s political relevance nationally.

3. Scholarships and Empowerment
Reports over the years have highlighted:
-Distribution of scholarships
-Skills acquisition programs
-Distribution of business support materials
-Financial assistance to some constituents

For many voters, these are practical benefits they can directly see.

Arguments Critics May Use Against His Re-Election:

1. Question of “Enough Representation”
Critics may ask:
“After four terms, what major transformational change has occurred in the constituency?”
Some citizens believe long-term lawmakers should leave behind:
-Major industrial development
-Large employment opportunities
-Improved public schools and hospitals
-Strong economic growth

If these are not clearly visible, critics may argue that another term is unnecessary.

2. Overdependence on Empowerment Politics
Some political analysts criticize Nigerian politicians generally for focusing more on:
-Temporary empowerment programs
-Cash or material distribution instead of:
Sustainable development
Industries
Long-term economic opportunities

Critics may therefore question whether the constituency has become economically stronger after many years of representation.

3. Internal Party Democracy Concerns
Another criticism often raised in Nigerian politics is that repeated re-election bids can:
-Reduce opportunities for younger politicians
-Weaken political competition
-Encourage political dominance by established figures

Some may argue that democracy benefits from fresh ideas and new leadership.

4. Accountability and Accessibility
Opponents may also ask:
-How often does he engage ordinary constituents?
-Are campaign promises fulfilled?
-Is there transparency regarding constituency projects and allocations?

These questions usually shape voter opinion during elections.

Balanced Political Assessment:

A fair judgment should depend on evidence, not emotions or party loyalty alone. Voters can ask:

-Has living condition improved meaningfully?
-Are youths getting jobs?
-Are schools and hospitals better?
-Has insecurity reduced locally?
-Are constituency projects visible and functional?
-Does the representative remain connected to the people?

If the answers are largely positive, supporters can justify a 5th term.

If many citizens feel development has been slow despite four previous terms, critics may reasonably argue that the constituency deserves new leadership and fresh direction.

In democratic systems, both continuity and change can be valid choices, the final decision belongs to the voters based on performance and public trust.

Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria.

My fellow Nigerians,

Nigeria does not belong to one tribe, one region, or one religion alone. It belongs to all of us. Whether Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Tiv, Ijaw, Fulani, Kanuri, Ibibio, Nupe, Gbagyi, or any other ethnic group, we all share the same land, the same struggles, and the same hopes for a better future.
For too long, tribalism has divided us and weakened our collective strength. While ordinary citizens argue against one another because of tribe or language, the real problems facing our nation continue to grow — insecurity, poverty, unemployment, poor education, corruption, inflation, and lack of good governance.
Kabilanci is not our identity; humanity and nationhood should come first. No tribe benefits when the country suffers. Hunger does not know tribe. Insecurity does not know tribe. Unemployment does not know tribe. The pain of bad leadership affects every Nigerian equally.
This is the time for unity, understanding, and cooperation among all ethnic groups. We must stop allowing politicians and selfish individuals to use tribe and religion to divide us for their personal interests. Instead, we should stand together as one people with one voice, demanding peace, justice, accountability, development, and equal opportunities for all.
Let us respect our differences, celebrate our cultures, and remember that our diversity should be our strength, not our weakness. A united Nigeria will always be stronger than a divided Nigeria.
The future of this country depends on our ability to work together, support one another, and focus on solving the real challenges facing our nation.

One Nigeria. One People. One Future.

Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria

In every constitutional democracy, including Nigeria, the primary responsibility for protecting the lives and properties of citizens belongs to the government. This duty is shared among different security institutions such as the Armed Forces, Police, intelligence agencies, and other security bodies operating under the authority of the state.

Under the Constitution of Nigeria, the government exists mainly to ensure the security and welfare of the people. That means:

The President and Commander-in-Chief oversee national security.

The military protects the country against external threats and serious internal insecurity.

The Police are mainly responsible for internal law enforcement and civilian protection.

Intelligence agencies gather information to prevent attacks and insecurity.

State and local authorities also have responsibilities in supporting public safety.

Using the recent Zamfara airstrike incident as a case matter, the issue becomes very sensitive because while the military may claim it was targeting armed groups or terrorists, the government still carries the responsibility of ensuring civilians are not harmed during operations.

Reports from Amnesty International and several international media outlets alleged that many civilians, including women and children, were killed in the Tumfa market airstrike in Zamfara State. The Nigerian military, however, denied that there was verified evidence of civilian casualties and stated the operation targeted terrorist leaders based on intelligence.

This situation raises several important questions:

1.Was proper intelligence gathered before the strike?
2.Were civilians adequately identified and protected?
3.Was there coordination between air and ground forces?
4.Will there be an independent investigation and accountability if civilians were wrongly killed?

Even during counter-terrorism operations, international humanitarian law requires governments and armed forces to avoid civilian casualties as much as possible. When mistakes happen, citizens expect:

transparency,
investigation,
justice for victims, and
measures to prevent future occurrences.

The Zamfara incident also highlights a broader challenge in northern Nigeria: armed groups often operate among civilian populations, making military operations extremely difficult. However, that complexity does not remove the government’s obligation to protect innocent citizens.

Several areas of government negligence can be identified from this tragedy:

1. Failure of Intelligence Gathering
The government repeatedly claims that such airstrikes are “intelligence-led,” yet civilians continue to die in large numbers. If the market was busy with ordinary traders and residents, then there was clearly either:
faulty intelligence,
poor verification of targets,
or complete disregard for civilian presence.
Security operations are supposed to distinguish between armed groups and innocent citizens. The repeated failure to do so reflects deep weaknesses in Nigeria’s intelligence system.

2. Lack of Coordination Between Air and Ground Forces
Security analysts have repeatedly blamed civilian airstrike deaths on poor coordination between the Nigerian Air Force and troops on the ground. In many cases, there appears to be inadequate confirmation before strikes are launched.
A responsible government should ensure:
real-time surveillance,
local confirmation,
and civilian evacuation measures before authorizing deadly force in populated areas.

3. Repetition of the Same Mistakes
This is not the first accidental military bombing in Nigeria. Similar incidents occurred in:
Tudun Biri in 2023,
Rann in 2017,
and several other locations across northern Nigeria.
When tragedies continue happening repeatedly over many years, it becomes difficult to describe them merely as “mistakes.” It suggests institutional negligence and failure to reform military procedures despite previous disasters.

4. Weak Accountability and Transparency
After many past airstrikes, investigations were promised, but few officials have been publicly punished or held accountable. Human rights organizations argue that the government often conducts internal investigations that rarely lead to justice for victims.
Without accountability:
errors are repeated,
victims lose trust in government,
and security agencies feel little pressure to improve operational standards.

5. Poor Protection of Civilian Lives
The primary constitutional responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property. When citizens fear both terrorists and the state’s own security operations, it reflects a serious governance failure.
The Nigerian military has denied evidence of civilian casualties in the Zamfara strike, despite reports from witnesses, humanitarian officials, and rights groups.
Such responses may worsen public anger because many Nigerians believe the government is more focused on defending its image than acknowledging victims’ suffering.

6. Inadequate Use of Modern Targeting Technology
Experts have argued that Nigeria’s military still lacks sufficient precision-strike capability, surveillance systems, and advanced civilian-harm prevention mechanisms.
A government that continues aerial bombardments without adequate precision systems risks turning anti-terror operations into mass civilian casualties.

7. Failure to Learn From Previous Civilian Harm
International human rights bodies, including United Nations Human Rights Office, have called for independent investigations and reforms after repeated civilian deaths.

Yet the recurrence of such incidents shows that lessons from previous tragedies have not been effectively implemented.

Allah ya kawo mana dauki.

Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria.

National security Adviser and Homeland security Adviser:

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently appointed retired Major General Adeyinka Fadewa as Special Adviser on Homeland Security — a newly created security position aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s internal security system.

Although the Presidency has not yet released a full official job description, statements from the government and the nature of the office suggest that the Homeland Security Adviser will mainly focus on internal/domestic security matters inside Nigeria.

Here are the likely major roles and responsibilities of the Homeland Security Adviser:

Coordinating Internal Security The adviser is expected to help coordinate agencies responsible for domestic security, such as:
the DSS
Nigeria Police Force
NSCDC
Immigration Service
Civil Defence and related agencies.

This coordination is meant to reduce rivalry and improve cooperation among security institutions.

Intelligence Gathering and Threat Analysis A major responsibility will likely involve:
monitoring internal threats,
analyzing intelligence reports,
identifying emerging dangers such as terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, cyber threats, separatist violence, and sabotage.
The office is expected to support “intelligence-driven operations.”

Advising the President on Homeland Security, The adviser will provide direct recommendations to the President on:
internal stability,
crisis prevention,
public safety,
counter-terrorism strategies,
protection of critical infrastructure.

This role is different from purely military or external defense matters.

Strengthening Inter-Agency Collaboration One of the key reasons mentioned for the appointment is to improve collaboration between security agencies.

In Nigeria, agencies sometimes overlap or compete. The Homeland Security Adviser may help:
organize joint operations,
improve information sharing,
create unified response systems.
Handling Non-Military Security Threats.

The office may focus more on:

border security,
internal insurgency,
organized crime,
cybercrime,
communal violence,
protection of public institutions,
disaster and emergency coordination.

This resembles the “homeland security” model used in some other countries.

Supporting the National Security Adviser (NSA) The Homeland Security Adviser is not the same as the National Security Adviser.

The NSA, currently Nuhu Ribadu, oversees broader national security issues including:
military strategy,
intelligence coordination,
foreign security cooperation,
national defense policy.

The Homeland Security Adviser will likely concentrate specifically on domestic/internal security, thereby helping reduce the workload of the NSA.

Difference Between NSA and Homeland Security Adviser:

National Security Adviser (NSA)
Overall national security, military, intelligence, foreign/security strategy

Homeland Security Adviser
Internal/domestic security and coordination of local security responses

In simple terms:

the NSA handles the “big national security picture,”
while the Homeland Security Adviser focuses more on threats within the country itself.

Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria.

A Call to Nigeria’s Activists: Rise Above Fear and Enlighten the Nation.

My dear patriots, activists, intellectuals, and professionals across Nigeria,

This is a call to conscience. This is a call to courage. This is a call to duty.
Our nation is passing through difficult times, and at a moment like this, silence is not wisdom. Silence is surrender.
Nigeria needs voices of truth. Nigeria needs men and women of knowledge to rise and educate the people in the areas where they have expertise.
If you are an economist, step forward and enlighten the people on economic realities, policies, and solutions.
If you are a security expert, speak and educate the people on security challenges, national safety, and strategic solutions.
If you are a lawyer, teach the people their constitutional rights and responsibilities.
If you are an educator, guide the minds of the younger generation.
If you are a political analyst, expose the truth and offer direction.
If you are a health professional, educate the people on public health and wellbeing.
Whatever your field of expertise may be, your knowledge is not meant to be hidden. It is meant to serve humanity.
Do not remain silent because of fear.
Do not be afraid that they may arrest you.
Do not be afraid that you may be denied a political appointment.
Do not be afraid that you may lose some temporary financial support that cannot even solve your real needs.
Do not be afraid of losing the favor of men.
Remember this eternal truth: No human being can give you what Allah has not written for you, and no human being can take away what Allah has destined for you.
Allah alone gives.
Allah alone withholds.
Allah alone protects.
Allah alone elevates.
When your trust is in Allah, no man can silence your purpose.
The fear of men has kept many brilliant minds quiet while ignorance spreads and the nation suffers.
If those who know the truth refuse to speak, then falsehood will continue to dominate the public space.
History does not remember those who kept quiet out of fear. It remembers those who stood firm for what is right.
Nigeria will not change by complaints alone. It will change when knowledgeable people rise to enlighten, guide, and awaken the people.
This is the time to speak.
This is the time to educate.
This is the time to serve.
Let your knowledge become light for the nation.
Let your courage become hope for the people.
And let your trust remain in Allah alone, for He is sufficient as Protector and Provider.
Rise above fear. Speak the truth. Enlighten the people. Save the nation.

Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria.

Steps Nigeria Can Take to Achieve Meaningful Change:

Nigeria is a country blessed with enormous human and natural resources, yet many citizens still face challenges such as poverty, unemployment, insecurity, corruption, poor leadership, and weak institutions. For real and lasting change to happen, both the leaders and the citizens must play active roles. Below are some important steps that can help Nigeria achieve meaningful progress.

1. Elect Competent and Honest Leaders.
One of the biggest steps toward national development is choosing leaders based on competence, integrity, vision, and patriotism rather than ethnicity, religion, or political party sentiment. Citizens must carefully examine the character and capacity of candidates before voting.

2. Strengthen the Education System.
Education is the foundation of every developed society. Nigeria must invest heavily in quality education by:
- Improving schools and learning facilities
- Training and motivating teachers
- Making education accessible and affordable
- Encouraging technical and vocational skills.

An educated population is harder to manipulate and better prepared to build the nation.

3. Fight Corruption Seriously.
Corruption weakens institutions, destroys trust, and slows development. There must be:

- Strong accountability systems
- Transparent government spending
- Independent anti-corruption agencies
- Equal justice for all, regardless of status
- Public funds should be used for the benefit of citizens, not personal enrichment.

4. Empower the Youth.
Young people are the backbone of Nigeria. The government and private sector should:
- Create job opportunities
- Support entrepreneurship
- Provide digital and vocational training
- Involve youths in leadership and decision-making.

When youths are empowered, crime and social unrest reduce significantly.

5. Promote Unity and National Interest.
Nigeria’s diversity should be a strength, not a source of division. Citizens should avoid tribalism, religious hatred, and regional discrimination. National unity, tolerance, and mutual respect are necessary for peace and development.

6. Strengthen Democratic Institutions.
Strong institutions are more important than powerful individuals. Nigeria needs:
- Independent judiciary
- Free and fair elections
- Responsible legislature
- Professional security agencies
- Freedom of speech and press.

This helps protect democracy and ensures accountability.

7. Encourage Civic Responsibility.
Citizens also have responsibilities. Nigerians should:
- Obey the law
- Pay taxes honestly
- Participate peacefully in politics
- Speak against injustice
- Avoid election violence and vote-buying.

A nation changes when its people become disciplined and responsible.

8. Improve the Economy and Support Local Production.
Nigeria should reduce dependence on oil by investing in:
- Agriculture
- Technology
- Manufacturing
- Small businesses
- Renewable energy

Supporting local industries will create jobs and strengthen the economy.

In summary:
Meaningful change in Nigeria cannot happen overnight, but it is possible through good leadership, active citizenship, quality education, youth empowerment, accountability, and national unity. Every Nigerian has a role to play in building a better future. If citizens remain determined, informed, and united, Nigeria can become a peaceful, prosperous, and respected nation.

Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria.

An Open Letter to the Youth of Nigeria.

Dear Nigerian Youths,
Nigeria stands today at a very important point in its history. Our nation is blessed with abundant natural resources, talented minds, energetic youths, and rich cultural diversity. Yet, despite these blessings, millions of citizens continue to suffer from poverty, unemployment, insecurity, corruption, poor education, unstable electricity, and weak leadership. These challenges are not caused by a lack of potential, but largely by bad governance, selfish leadership, and the silence of good citizens.

As the youths of Nigeria, you are not just the leaders of tomorrow, you are the strength of today. You make up the largest population in the country, and your voice carries great power. The future of Nigeria depends greatly on whether you decide to remain silent spectators or become active participants in the struggle for a better nation.

However, this struggle must not be fought with violence, destruction, hatred, or weapons. Violence only destroys lives, properties, and the unity of the nation. Instead, the battle against bad governance must be fought through knowledge, wisdom, unity, lawful action, and civic responsibility.

Education remains the strongest weapon for national transformation. An educated youth cannot easily be deceived by empty promises, tribal politics, religious manipulation, or vote-buying. Therefore, Nigerian youths must invest heavily in learning, critical thinking, political awareness, entrepreneurship, technology, and leadership development. A nation rises when its youths become intellectually empowered.

Youths must also understand their constitutional rights and responsibilities. Democracy only works when citizens participate actively. Register to vote, obtain your voter’s card, and participate peacefully in elections. Hold leaders accountable through lawful means. Ask questions. Demand transparency. Use social media responsibly to spread truth and awareness, not hatred or misinformation. Attend community meetings, engage in public discussions, and support policies that promote justice, equality, and development.

Furthermore, unity among youths is very important. Bad governance often survives because citizens are divided along ethnic, tribal, and religious lines. Nigerian youths must reject division and embrace national unity. Whether Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo, Fulani, Tiv, Kanuri, Ijaw, or from any other ethnic group, we all share the same struggles and hopes. A divided youth population weakens the fight for progress, while unity strengthens it.

You must also lead by example. The fight against corruption does not begin only in government offices; it begins in everyday life. Reject cheating, dishonesty, examination malpractice, internet fraud, and every form of corruption. A better Nigeria cannot be built by corrupt citizens demanding honest leaders.
Remember that meaningful change does not happen overnight. Nations that are great today achieved progress because courageous citizens refused to surrender to hopelessness. Therefore, do not lose faith in Nigeria. Instead, become part of the solution. Build your skills, support good leadership, defend justice, respect the rule of law, and contribute positively to your communities.

The destiny of Nigeria is in your hands. If the youths rise with wisdom, discipline, education, and lawful action, no force can stop the emergence of a better Nigeria.
May your generation become the turning point in the history of our nation.

God bless the youths of Nigeria,
And God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

Yours sincerely,
Abubakar Umar Balarabe Zaria.