Middle Belt Youth Forum Demands Presidency by 2031, Rejects “Northern” Label — A Defining Moment in Nigeria’s Political Identity Debate
In a bold and decisive statement that has reignited conversations about national identity, political inclusion, and regional justice in Nigeria, the Middle Belt Youth Forum has officially rejected the long‑standing notion that the Middle Belt is simply an appendage of Northern Nigeria. Instead, the forum asserts that the Middle Belt — with its distinct history, cultures, and political aspirations — must be recognised in its own right and properly represented in Nigeria’s leadership structure.
In a political environment that has long placed Nigeria’s regions in debate — often intertwined with struggles over power sharing, insecurity, marginalisation, and national unity — this latest declaration from the youth forum carries significant weight. The forum’s demand goes beyond semantics; it is a call for justice, equity, and fair political representation that many believe is long overdue.
Rejection of “One North” Political Identity
At the heart of the Middle Belt Youth Forum’s declaration is a firm rejection of historical and contemporary narratives that automatically classify the Middle Belt as part of the North — a grouping often referred to as “Arewa” or the One North configuration.
For decades, political discourse in Nigeria has tended to cluster the Middle Belt — comprising states such as Benue, Plateau, Nasarawa, Kogi, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), along with portions of Bauchi, Borno, Kaduna, Kebbi, and Yobe — together with Northern Nigeria. Critics of this classification argue that it misrepresents the region’s identity, dilutes its political influence, and masks the cultural diversity that sets it apart.
While there is no official constitutional definition of the Middle Belt, scholarly and civil society discourse overwhelmingly treats it as a distinct socio‑political entity — one shaped by its own historical experiences, ethnic diversity, and political struggles. This position is affirmed by leaders such as Dr. Bitrus Pogu, President of the broader Middle Belt Forum, who has dismissed claims that the Middle Belt is a fabricated identity designed to destabilise the North, emphasizing instead its deep historical roots predating Nigeria’s modern political borders.
From Marginalisation to Political Aspiration
In its statement, the Middle Belt Youth Forum argued that decades of marginalisation, insecurity, and political exclusion have eroded the region’s voice and dignity in national affairs.
Despite playing a foundational role in Nigeria’s unity and stability — especially in agriculture and national security — the forum said the Middle Belt has been sidelined when it comes to top leadership positions, including the presidency. This sentiment resonates with a broader tapestry of socio‑political grievances expressed by civil society groups, traditional leaders, and other regional alliances over the years.
In particular, the region’s significant contribution to food security, national cohesion, and economic productivity cannot be overstated. Some data show that the Middle Belt remains one of Nigeria’s most agriculturally productive regions, often described in economic analyses as one of the country’s primary food baskets — yet it has consistently lacked proportionate political recognition.
Demand for a Middle Belt President by 2031
The forum’s most striking demand is that Nigeria must produce a president from the Middle Belt region by the year 2031. This, they argue, is a crucial step toward healing longstanding wounds, strengthening national confidence, and demonstrating a true commitment to unity and inclusion.
“The Middle Belt is not a minority begging for recognition,” the forum stated. “We are a foundational part of Nigeria with our own identity, and the time has come for us to lead.”
The call for a Middle Belt presidency isn’t framed as a rejection of other regions’ aspirations; rather, it is presented as a call for balance and fairness — a chance to fully integrate the region into the nation’s leadership architecture. This demand reflects a growing recognition among political observers that equity in leadership selection processes has become central to maintaining national cohesion in Nigeria’s diverse federation.
Why the Middle Belt’s Identity Matters
The Middle Belt Youth Forum’s declaration is part of a broader movement to redefine how the region is perceived politically and culturally. Historically, the Middle Belt has resisted classification as part of "the North" — a legacy that emerged during and after colonial structuring of Nigeria’s administrative regions. During colonial rule, boundaries were drawn that grouped disparate ethnic nationalities under regional banners, inadvertently marginalising communities that did not align neatly with dominant identities.
This historical context explains why civil society organisations, cultural leaders, and political bodies continue to assert a separate Middle Belt identity. Rejecting the "Northern" label is not merely symbolic; it is tied to questions of political autonomy, equitable resource allocation, and cultural recognition. This claim has been backed by allied organisations, including Christian and cultural elders, who emphasise that the Middle Belt is “neither North nor South” but a distinct geopolitical space within Nigeria’s federal system.
Political Representation and Future Elections
The forum’s demand also intersects with Nigeria’s broader debates over political zoning and representation, particularly as the 2027 general elections approach. Political actors from various regions are already discussing rotation of the presidency and equitable distribution of key offices — discussions that factor in diverse geopolitical interests, including those of the Middle Belt.
While the forum’s immediate call is targeted toward the 2031 presidential contest, the underlying message is clear: the Middle Belt seeks direct involvement in shaping Nigeria’s future, not merely being represented as a subset of another region.
Proponents of Middle Belt political participation argue that without inclusive leadership, longstanding grievances — such as those tied to insecurity, resource control, and ethnic representation — will persist. Many also believe that a Middle Belt presidency could help address structural inequalities, broker renewed alliances among federating units, and provide strategic leadership that resonates with Nigeria’s diverse populace.
Political Parties, Civil Society and National Dialogue
In urging political parties, civil society organisations, and Nigerians of goodwill to recognise the Middle Belt’s rightful place in national politics, the Youth Forum is challenging the broader political ecosystem to rethink how leadership opportunities are distributed.
This call is less about confrontation with other regions and more about advocacy for fairness and holistic national development. The forum emphasised that its demand “is not against any region” but is anchored in what its members describe as justice, balance, and the future prosperity of Nigeria.
The Middle Belt Youth Forum’s stance aligns with ongoing discourse from other regional and interest groups that have, over the years, sought fair recognition and principles of equity within Nigeria’s federal system.
Conclusion: A Defining Moment for Middle Belt Identity Politics
The Middle Belt Youth Forum’s demand for a Middle Belt presidency by 2031 and rejection of the “Northern” label marks a significant chapter in Nigeria’s evolving political narrative. It reflects the aspirations of millions of citizens from a region that has historically been politically, economically, and culturally vibrant but often underrepresented at the federal level.
Whether or not this bold demand will translate into electoral success or structural change remains to be seen. Yet, the conversation itself — centred on identity, inclusion, and equitable leadership — has already begun reshaping national debates as Nigeria approaches its next presidential cycle.
In a nation grappling with diversity and the call for fairness in governance, the Middle Belt Youth Forum’s declaration stands as a powerful reminder: Nigeria’s unity depends not on homogenising identities, but on recognising and integrating every region’s contributions and aspirations.
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