A new youth-led movement, Ariwa 100% Focus, has been officially launched in Nigeria’s capital with a bold agenda to confront unemployment, insecurity, and political marginalization facing young people in Northern Nigeria.
The group, which describes itself as non-partisan and development-driven, unveiled its leadership structure at a high-level event in Abuja, pledging to empower youth through political inclusion, economic opportunities, and cultural advocacy.
Bridging the Generational Gap
Speaking at the inaugural event, Dr. Abubakar Fakai, President of Ariwa 100%, said the movement was designed to bridge the gap between northern elders and the youth, building on the legacy of traditional leadership while forging a new path forward.
“Our elders have sacrificed so much, and it is now our duty as youths to sustain and complement those efforts through political participation, job creation, and cultural preservation,” Fakai stated.
He noted that Ariwa 100% is open to all northerners regardless of political affiliation, ethnicity, or profession, emphasizing that the movement’s only focus is the development of Northern Nigeria.
Tackling Insecurity and Unemployment in Northern Nigeria
Another speaker at the event described the initiative as “unique”, pointing out that the group is solution-oriented and not just another voice of protest.
“Northern Nigeria is bleeding from insecurity, unemployment, and neglect,” Fakai said.
“But our approach is not confrontational; it is solution-driven. We want our voices to be heard, and then we will match them with action.”
The group acknowledged the significant role of northern entrepreneurs like Aliko Dangote, whose industrial ventures have created thousands of jobs, and called for greater support for such business leaders amid growing economic challenges.
Youth Empowerment and Political Inclusion Top the Agenda
Ariwa 100% announced plans to roll out several youth empowerment initiatives within the next six months, including:
- PVC mobilization campaigns to encourage voter registration and political participation
- Regional awareness programs focused on peacebuilding and cultural unity
- Entrepreneurship support for small businesses and job creation across the North
- Political sensitization workshops to educate youth on governance and civic responsibility
“Whatever we do, if we are not part of the decision-making process, our complaints will change nothing,” Dr. Fakai emphasized.
“That is why political inclusion for our youth is non-negotiable.”
Preserving Tradition, Promoting Progress
The group also reaffirmed its respect for traditional northern values and leaders, declaring that cultural dignity and leadership must go hand in hand.
“Respecting our leaders is a cultural duty,” said Dr. Fakai. “We will not allow anyone to undermine or insult our elders. The youth must understand that dignity and leadership go together.”
Leadership Inauguration and Next Steps
The event concluded with the formal inauguration of Ariwa 100% principal officers, who will lead the movement for the next three to six months. Progress will be reviewed at the end of that period to assess the effectiveness of the initial rollout and adjust strategies accordingly.
