Former Deputy Governors Push for Better Governance, National Unity

The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria has called for urgent national reorientation and stronger collaboration between leaders and citizens to tackle the country’s growing socio-political challenges and promote sustainable national development.

The appeal followed a closed-door meeting with former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan in Abuja, where members of the forum briefed him on preparations for their fifth annual conference scheduled for October.
Speaking after the meeting, the forum’s Chairman, Dr. Chris Akomas, said leadership extends beyond those in government, stressing that every Nigerian has a role to play in building a better nation.
He noted that leadership begins at home, within communities, and across every level of society, urging citizens to work together to close leadership gaps and contribute to national progress.
Dr. Akomas also revealed that recommendations from previous editions of the forum’s conference have influenced public policy. He cited the Federal Government’s recent distribution of hybrid cocoa seedlings as one of the forum’s earlier recommendations that has now been implemented.
Addressing the country’s security challenges and political tensions, the forum called on Nigerians to remain united and embrace peaceful coexistence.
According to him, Nigerians must continue to look out for one another despite differences, stressing that unity and collective responsibility remain essential for building a stronger nation.
The forum also commended former President Jonathan for his continued support as its Grand Patron and expressed confidence that the October conference would produce practical recommendations to strengthen nation-building and drive sustainable development.
Dr. Akomas said this year’s conference is themed, “Rethinking Nation Building: Bridging the Leadership-Citizen Disconnect Through Culture, Orientation, Character and Tradition for Sustainable Development.”
He explained that the conference would bring together stakeholders from various sectors to examine the growing disconnect between leaders and citizens and develop practical solutions aimed at improving governance, rebuilding public trust, and fostering sustainable national development.