The presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Adewole Adebayo, has blamed corruption for Nigeria’s persistent economic and security challenges, urging political leaders to embrace transparency, accountability and integrity in governance.
Speaking on Wednesday at the Arewa Awareness Summit on Unity Against Insecurity in Kaduna State, Adebayo said the country’s problems could be resolved through effective leadership and responsible governance.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Ade Alabi, the SDP flagbearer argued that corruption remained the greatest obstacle to national development.
According to him, no policy or institutional reform would succeed unless it was built on transparency, accountability and integrity in public service.
Adebayo also maintained that Nigeria’s challenges were not insurmountable, expressing confidence that good governance could significantly improve the country’s situation within three years.
Highlighting the potential of Northern Nigeria, he said the region possessed abundant human and natural resources capable of driving economic growth if properly harnessed.
He called for greater investment in agriculture, describing the sector as vital for job creation, food security and wealth generation across the region.
Adebayo also raised concerns over the large number of out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria, stressing that education remained the foundation for security, productivity and sustainable national development.
He urged stakeholders to move beyond discussions and implement practical solutions to address insecurity.