Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has confirmed the appointment of Professor Abubakar Jika Jiddere of the Department of Political Science, Bayero University Kano (BUK) as its new spokesperson.
The Convener and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Professor Ango Abdullahi (Magajin Rafin Zazzau), while approving the appointment said the forum recognises Professor Jiddere’s competence and dedication to the cause of the Northern region.
In a statement by the Chairman of NEF’s Management Board, Air Marshall Al-Amin Daggash (Rtd), published in BUK official weekly bulletin, released on Friday, it described Professor Jiddere as a distinguished academic with a track record of excellence and commitment.
Born in 1965 in Jalingo, Taraba State, Professor Jiddere has an impressive academic and professional background. He attended Muhammadu Nya Primary School, Jalingo; Marmara Government Secondary School, Wukari (1979–1984); College of Preliminary Studies, Yola (1984–1986); B.Sc. in Political Science, Bayero University, Kano (1986–1989); M.Sc. in International Relations and Strategic Studies, University of Jos (1990–1993); Ph.D. in Political Science, Bayero University, Kano.
Professor Jidderi joined the services of Bayero University, Kano as an Assistant Lecturer in the Department of Political Science in 1993 where he rose to become a Professor of International Relations; he also served the nation during his National Youth Service at the 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu (1989–1990).”
Jiddere took over from Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, who now works as Director of NGOs and CSOs for the Northern Elders Forum.
Speaking shortly after the announcement, Professor Jiddere expressed gratitude for the offer and reaffirmed his commitment to the goals of the Northern Elders Forum.
“I wish to state that I have humbly accepted my new appointment and responsibility as the spokesperson of the Northern Elders Forum,” he declared.
The Forum is a non-partisan organization dedicated to articulating the collective interests of Northern Nigeria while fostering unity and national development across the country. I pray for Allah’s guidance and protection throughout my tenure and beyond.”
The Northern Elders Forum reiterated its role as a non-partisan organization focused on advocating for the interests of Northern Nigeria while promoting unity and development in collaboration with other regions of the country. The Forum congratulated Professor Jiddere on his appointment and wished him success in the discharge of his duties.