Northern Nigerian now lags behind both Eastern and Western regions of Nigeria in terms of
economic resources, education and even leadership control at the centre. The region is
currently characterised by unemployment, security challenges, poverty, industrial collapse,
weak educational-base and lack of focus. However, the region is endowed with vast
uncultivated arable land that is suitable for crop and livestock farming. Northern Nigeria also
has abundant unexploited solid minerals deposits. This paper therefore examines the
historical and current situation of Northern Nigeria using desk research, interviews and
personal observations. The paper establishes that the region produce large percentage of the
foodstuff consumed in the country which can be processed for more economic gains. The
paper also finds that the region’s progress depends on its ability to exploit solid minerals
which is in commercial quantities. In this regard, the paper provides pragmatic solutions to
reposition the region for industrial and technological rebirth, educational restructuring as well
as healthy and prosperous population. However, the paper points out that the socio-economic
future of Northern Nigeria actually depends on the political leadership and the sustainability
of any economic path by succeeding Governments.