NPU President Abu Mohammed Urges Unity, Hails Gov. Fubara’s Leadership Amid Crisis

The National President of the Northern Peoples Union (NPU), Alhaji Abu Mohammed, has called on Nigerians to shun divisive tendencies and embrace peace, unity, and tolerance as the country marked its 65th Independence anniversary.

Speaking at a press conference in Kaduna on Wednesday, Mohammed said the Union was established to strengthen national cohesion and combat social vices such as tribalism, religious intolerance, and moral decay, which he described as obstacles to Nigeria’s progress.

He explained that the Union—comprising civil society groups and non-governmental organisations with a global reach—is a social movement rather than a political group, committed to reawakening national values and building a new sense of belonging among citizens.

“Our Union was founded on principles of cooperation and unity, with the determination to confront tribalism, religious intolerance, and moral decay,” Mohammed said. “We stand as a beacon of hope, committed to promoting tolerance, strengthening national cohesion, and alleviating the suffering caused by systemic challenges.”

Highlighting the group’s focus on youth empowerment, Mohammed said the NPU had designed programmes that provide skills acquisition, mentorship, and support for the less privileged to prepare young Nigerians for the future.

“Youth remain the backbone of our nation. Through empowerment and inclusiveness across ethnic, religious, and regional lines, we are equipping the next generation with the tools to secure a brighter tomorrow,” he added.

The NPU President also praised Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State for his “maturity and calmness” in handling the recent political crisis and state of emergency in the state.

“Governor Fubara’s restraint in the face of provocation averted bloodshed and demonstrated the kind of leadership Nigeria urgently needs,” he said. “While others might have chosen confrontation, he prioritised peace, preserved lives, and set aside personal ego.”

Mohammed urged all levels of government to actively promote inclusiveness and peaceful coexistence, while investing in key sectors such as agriculture, technology, financial inclusion, and vocational training to create sustainable livelihoods.

He warned against allowing Nigeria to fracture along ethnic, religious, or political lines, stressing the need to view diversity as a source of strength. “We must rise above personal ambitions and unite with open minds and sincere hearts. This nation is greater than any single individual,” he said.

Concluding his remarks, Mohammed called for a rebirth of patriotism, particularly among young Nigerians, urging them to uphold the values of peace, unity, and tolerance.

“Unity, tolerance, and peace are not mere slogans,” he stated. “They are the pillars upon which a stronger Nigeria must be built. We must come together as one people with one destiny, determined to leave behind a better country for our children.”