Northern Nigeria’s Unity Agenda Takes Center Stage at PANN Annual Conference in Kaduna
KADUNA, Nigeria — July 5, 2025
The city of Kaduna came alive as dignitaries, community leaders, lawmakers, educationists, and stakeholders from across Northern Nigeria gathered at the historic Arewa House for the 3rd Annual Conference of the Progressive Amalgamation of Northern Nigeria (PANN). The event, held from July 3rd to July 5th, culminated in a powerful session on July 5th, where remarkable strides toward unity and development across the region were highlighted.
In his keynote address, the Director General of PANN, Hon. BalaSalihuDawakin Kudu, described the conference as the third of its kind since the formation of the association. He emphasized that PANN was established with a mission to foster unity, mutual understanding, and peaceful coexistence among the diverse ethnic and religious groups of Northern Nigeria. “Our association is born out of the urgent need to bridge divides and to build a Northern Nigeria that thrives on cooperation, empathy, and progress” Hon Bala said. “From Sokoto to Abuja, we have touched lives and connected communities.”
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Highlighting the milestones achieved by PANN, the Director General announced several impactful programs spearheaded by the association, it’s Sponsorship of five orphans in each Northern state—including Abuja—to pursue tertiary education, Renovation of 10 classrooms in selected primary schools, and the provision of key learning materials such as science, mathematics, English, physics, chemistry, and biology textbooks to various secondary schools.
The association has facilitated the release of over 2,500 inmates across 20 correctional centers by settling minor debts and legal fees. The initiative also includes family reintegration programs to help former inmates find their footing post-incarceration,
PANN has successfully encouraged and supported inter-state marriages, strengthening cultural bonds across diverse ethnic groups in the region.
These initiatives, Bala emphasized, are designed to build bridges across ethnic and religious lines, promote education, and reduce the cycle of poverty and crime.
The conference drew commendations from several traditional and political leaders. Representing His Royal Highness, Sarkin Muslim, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, extended royal blessings and praised the association for its grassroots development work.
He specifically thanked the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, for his unwavering support and humanitarian focus, saying: “Senator Barau is a pillar for the common people. What we are hearing from the people of Kano is a testament to his commitment. We urge him and all leaders to promote understanding among the Fulani and other ethnic groups to ensure lasting peace.”
The Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, was ably represented by prominent business magnate, Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar of Kaduna State. He expressed gratitude to the organizers and assured the association of his continued support. “Let us unite and strengthen this association. We must also stand firm in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, and ensure that our people come out in large numbers in 2027 to give him another mandate,” he urged.
The Governor of Kaduna State, His Excellency Malam Uba Sani, in his goodwill message, commended PANN for its exceptional efforts in youth empowerment and social reform.
“I call upon our educationists, politicians, business leaders, and traditional institutions to support this noble cause. This is how we build a stronger North,” the Governor remarked.
He also acknowledged the contributions of Senator Barau I. Jibrin and other key stakeholders in ensuring the success of the three-day conference.
The event saw the presentation of over 30 awards to notable individuals across different sectors for their contributions to Northern Nigeria’s unity and progress. Among the recipients were:
His Excellency Malam Uba Sani (Governor of Kaduna), Senator Barau I. Jibrin (Deputy Senate President), Emirs of Sokoto, Kaduna, Kwara, Kogi, and Borno, Distinguished educationists and medical professionals.
Each awardee was recognized for embodying the ideals of service, unity, and developmental impact.
In his closing address, the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Samuel Iortyom, lauded the organizers and participants for their commitment and cooperation. “This gathering is a clear indication that the North can lead with unity, integrity, and shared purpose,” he stated. “May Almighty Allah grant us safe journeys back to our respective destinations and bless the mission of PANN.”
