By Adah Sharma
Abuja,
The Middle Belt Forum (MBF) has extended warm congratulations to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on his 73rd birthday, applauding his administration’s strides in security and infrastructure while urging deeper economic reforms and progress on national restructuring.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the group, representing 14 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), commended Tinubu for appointing individuals from the Middle Belt region to key government roles and establishing new federal institutions aimed at fostering development. The Forum specifically highlighted the recent signing of the North Central Development Commission into law, describing it as a “significant milestone” for the region.
Dr. Pogu Bitrus, President of the MBF, noted improvements in security across much of the Middle Belt, contrasting it with the “pre-existing turmoil” before Tinubu’s tenure. “We acknowledge the reduction in violence and commend the government’s ongoing efforts to combat insurgent groups and violent gangs in remaining hotspots,” he stated. The Forum also lauded infrastructure projects underway in the FCT, including road expansions and public facility upgrades.
However, the statement struck a balance between praise and advocacy, urging the President to prioritize Nigeria’s restructuring—a longstanding demand of the region—and revisit economic policies to tackle rising poverty and unemployment. “As the President marks this milestone, we implore him to reflect on the urgent need to create job opportunities, stimulate business growth, and ensure equitable development,” Bitrus added.
The MBF’s message concluded with prayers for Tinubu’s health and wisdom, expressing hope that his leadership would steer Nigeria toward “unprecedented greatness.”
The birthday tribute underscores the Middle Belt’s complex engagement with the federal government, blending gratitude for tangible gains with pressing calls for systemic change.
