“The Arithmetic of Human Dignity: Turning Hope into Action for the North-West.”
By Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu
Democracy Newsline Newspaper
Northern Bureau Chief
June 13, 2027.
Representing His Excellency, Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau I. Jibrin, delivered a compelling message at the High-Level North-West Policy Dialogue in Kano, themed “Reducing Multidimensional Poverty through Innovative Financing and a Scaled Social Protection System.”
Addressing a distinguished gathering of governors, ministers, traditional and religious leaders, development partners, and international organizations, Senator Barau presented the Vice President’s address titled “The Arithmetic of Human Dignity.” The speech underscored the urgent need to tackle poverty beyond income by investing in education, healthcare, nutrition, and social protection.
He highlighted the North-West’s immense potential as a hub of agriculture, commerce, and youthful talent, while acknowledging the challenges of poverty, insecurity, and millions of out-of-school children. Emphasizing the proposed Universal Child Benefit, he called for practical policies that protect vulnerable families, empower children, and create pathways to opportunity.
The dialogue ended with a strong call for action, urging stakeholders to move beyond promises and build sustainable systems that will uplift communities, strengthen resilience, and ensure that every child, mother, and family has the chance to thrive. It was a powerful reaffirmation of the Federal Government’s commitment to transforming hope into measurable progress across the North-West and Nigeria at large.
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, JUNE 11TH 2026)



