AFECON Inaugurates New Northeast Leadership

By Saidu Adamu, Jalingo

Former elected councillors from the 1,321 wards of the Northeast have inaugurated a new regional leadership to champion peace, security and development at the grassroots.

The new executives of the Association of Former Elected Councillors of Nigeria (AFECON) were inaugurated in Jalingo on Sunday, with Hon. Bello Gabdo emerging as Regional Chairman.

Gabdo said his administration will focus on uniting members across Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Taraba, Gombe and Bauchi states to form a strong voice for grassroots governance.

He noted that with experience from every ward in the region, the association is well-positioned to support governors, the Federal Government and development partners in intelligence sharing, reconstruction and sustainable development.

"We know all 1,321 wards by heart. We will be the voice that tells those in authority what our people really need," he said, adding that no local government area or ward would be left behind.

He also pledged to push for the welfare, dignity and inclusion of former councillors in political appointments and empowerment programmes.

Chairman of the Inauguration Committee, Prince Tukur Yerima, described former councillors as the heartbeat of local governance, and charged the new leadership to lead with integrity, inclusivity and vigour.

"AFECON Northeast stands ready to collaborate with government institutions, traditional leaders, and regional bodies to foster peace, economic growth, and democratic stability," Yerima said.

Outgoing Acting Chairman, Hon. Shagari Umar, said the association was formed to address the neglect and hardship faced by former councillors after leaving office, and expressed hope that it would become a platform for grassroots advocacy.