19th December, 2012
Former Head of State, Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar, on Tuesday expressed worry that the insecurity in the country was affecting the nation’s economy, especially in the North.
Abubakar made the remark in Minna after his inauguration as the Chairman of the Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida University, Lapai Endowment Fund board of trustees by Governor Babangida Aliyu of Niger.
He said the North was most hit by insecurity that its once popular night economy has become comatose, adding: “There is no more night economy.”
He said carnage, destruction of public property and loss of innocent lives were having negative effects on the nation’s economy and, therefore, should be stopped.
“People who have grievances against the government should come out to discuss the grievances and settle for peace,” Abubakar said.
He told parents that they had a responsibility to check their children to avoid their joining wrong groups.
He also urged the state government to contribute meaningfully to the fund to facilitate the completion of ongoing projects such as lecture theatre, lecture rooms, central water system and vice chancellor’s lodge.
Abubakar urged Nigerians, especially the elite, to contribute to the fund as a way of paying back for the free education they enjoyed in the state and parts of the country.
He told the 6,000 students of the university to remain disciplined and avoid anything that could tarnish the university’s image. The former head of state urged the institution’s authorities “not to spare the rod” in dealing with any errant student.
He paid tribute to the late Kaduna State Governor, Patrick Yakowa, who died in a helicopter crash on 15 December, describing him as a worthy citizen and a friend.
The Niger State Governor, Dr Babangida Aliyu, affirmed that the relationship between late Yakowa and Abubakar was very cordial.