The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria has announced plans to tackle the growing disconnect between leadership and citizens, as well as the breakdown of family and societal values, at its forthcoming National Conference. The conference, scheduled for October 20 and 21, will focus on the theme, “Rethinking Nation Building: Bridging the Leadership-Citizen Disconnect through Orientation, Attitude, Character, Culture and Tradition Towards Sustainable Development.”
Chairman of the Forum, Dr. Chris Akomas, stated this in Abuja after a meeting that focused on preparations for the 2026 annual national conference. The meeting, which comprised the Board of Trustees and the Executive Committee, aimed to review the Forum’s programmes and make final arrangements for the conference. Akomas explained that the conference would be impactful and communicate its objectives effectively to members, government, and Nigerians.
According to Akomas, the disconnect in Nigeria extends beyond the relationship between government and citizens to families, communities, and other areas of national life. He expressed concern over challenges including drug abuse, addiction, poor application of education and skills, and the desire among some young people to make quick money, saying these were indications of deeper disconnects within society.
Akomas called for stronger family bonds and parental responsibility, urging parents to create time to interact with their children, share meals, and provide guidance and values required for responsible adulthood. He said addressing the disconnect would help Nigerians understand that they do not live for themselves alone but have responsibilities towards one another and the wider society.
Former Deputy Governor of Plateau State and former Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, urged mothers to play a stronger role in strengthening family values and raising responsible children. Tallen said mothers should make time for their families, describing them as the heart of the home, while urging them to work with their husbands to provide proper upbringing and guidance for their children.
The Chairman Board of Trustees of the Forum, Mr. Abdulmalik Mahmood, said the conference would bring together distinguished Nigerians to examine where the country came from, where it is today, and where it is heading. He described the disconnect in Nigeria’s polity, leadership, and governance as a serious challenge, saying the Forum would use the conference to interrogate the issues before presenting its position to Nigerians and government.
The Forum's National Conference aims to bring about sustainable development by addressing the leadership-citizen disconnect and promoting stronger family bonds. The event is expected to feature distinguished Nigerians who will examine the country's progress and propose solutions to the challenges facing the nation.
Key points
- The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria to hold a National Conference to address leadership-citizen disconnect
- Conference to focus on theme, “Rethinking Nation Building: Bridging the Leadership-Citizen Disconnect"
- Event aims to promote sustainable development by addressing societal challenges
