The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, Adewole Adebayo, has blamed corruption for Nigeria’s persistent economic and security challenges, saying the country cannot overcome insecurity and poverty without transparency, accountability and integrity in public service.
Adebayo stated this while addressing the Arewa Awareness Summit on Unity Against Insecurity in Kaduna State, where he urged political leaders to embrace responsible governance and adopt practical solutions to the nation’s socio-economic and security challenges.
His remarks were contained in a statement issued by his media aide, Ade Alabi.
According to Adebayo, Nigeria’s challenges can be addressed through effective leadership and good governance, insisting that corruption remains one of the biggest obstacles to national development.
He said no policy or institutional reform would achieve meaningful results unless it is anchored on transparency, accountability and integrity in public service.
The SDP presidential candidate also said Northern Nigeria possesses the human and natural resources needed to drive economic growth, urging leaders to harness the region’s potential for the benefit of its people.
He called on stakeholders to move beyond discussions on the causes of insecurity and focus on implementing practical and sustainable solutions to the problem.
Adebayo further advocated increased investment in agriculture, describing the sector as critical to job creation, food security and economic growth.
He also expressed concern over the high number of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria, warning that sustainable development would remain elusive without greater investment in education.