Two days after suspended Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP Bauchi Central) resigned as Chairman of the Northern Senators’ Forum, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’Adua (APC Katsina Central) has become the new Chairman.
Yar’Adua became the new Chairman of the NSF after receiving unanimous approval from senators representing the three northern geo-political zones.
The Northern senators also appointed Senator Mohammed Monguno (APC, Borno North) as Publicity Secretary of the forum, a role previously held by Senator Summaila Kawu (NNPP Kano South) during Ningi's term.
It is unclear whether Kawu also resigned or was removed following the Red Chamber crisis on Tuesday.
After becoming the new chairman of NSF, Yar ‘ Adua stated that the main goal of the Northern Forum was to prioritize Nigeria's interests, followed by the development of the North through collaboration with counterparts from the South and working with the executive arm of government to address the region's challenges.
Yar’Adua mentioned, “We will work with our colleagues to ensure the unity and progress of our nation.
“To achieve these goals, I am dedicated to improving the Northern Senators Forum's operations.
“We will operate with transparency, accountability, and integrity, honoring the trust placed in us by the voters. “
He added, “Our legislative discussions will continue to be respectful, dignified, and in line with the rule of law as we carry out our lawmaking, policy-making, and oversight responsibilities.
“I believe that through our combined efforts and cooperation, we can bring about positive change, uplift the North, and contribute to our nation's overall development.”
In his acceptance speech to his fellow Northern Senators, Senator Yar’Adua stated, “I am deeply honored and humbled to accept the role of Chairman of the Northern Senators Forum.
“I want to express my sincere gratitude to my colleagues for their trust in me following the resignation of my respected elder brother Senator Abdul Ningi, whom I greatly respect. I want to acknowledge and commend his commendable performance and contributions during his tenure.
“I am aware of the challenges facing the Northern region, including security, agriculture, education, healthcare, drug abuse, and human trafficking, which we will address through more effective legislation in collaboration with our southern counterparts.
