Nigeria, June 26 -- Former military president, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida (retired), has expressed support for the development of Northern Nigeria, saying the region needs strong and credible voices to promote its growth and protect its interests.

He made this statement during a visit from officials of the Arewa Cohesion for Peace, Unity and Development Initiative, led by its Chairman of the Board of Trustees and former Governor of Sokoto State, Alhaji Attahiru Dalhatu Bafarawa. The visit took place at Babangida's Hilltop Residence in Minna, Niger State, on Wednesday.

General Babangida commended the idea behind the Arewa Cohesion Movement and pledged his support.

He said that the North urgently needs a group like this, especial...