Former Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has called on the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria to utilize its experience in governance and politics to contribute more to nation-building and democratic development. Ganduje made the call during a visit to the Forum's headquarters in Abuja, where he expressed satisfaction with the organization's growth and activities. The Forum, according to Ganduje, has provided a platform for former deputy governors to share their wealth of experience on governance, democracy, and national development.
Ganduje commended the Forum for establishing a permanent headquarters, which he believes will provide an enabling environment for members to plan, exchange ideas, and contribute meaningfully to national development. He also praised the Forum for sustaining its annual national conference, with this year's edition scheduled for October 20 and 21 in Abuja. Ganduje urged Nigerians, particularly former public office holders, to prioritize nation-building over personal, ethnic, or religious interests.
The Forum's National Chairman, Dr Chris Akomas, said the organization has grown through the commitment and sacrifice of former deputy governors who created a platform for continued national service. Akomas acknowledged the support of the Forum's Grand Patron, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and National Patrons, including Ganduje and Senator Andy Uba. He described Ganduje's visit to the headquarters as significant, particularly as the Forum prepares for its fifth national conference.
The fifth national conference, scheduled for October, will focus on the theme "Rethinking Nation Building: Bridging the Leadership-Citizen Disconnect on Orientation, Attitude, Character, Culture and Tradition Towards Sustainable Development." Akomas said the Forum is concerned about the growing disconnect between leadership and citizens and seeks to examine how attitude, character, culture, and orientation can be used to bridge the gap.
Akomas emphasized that the Forum's central message remains nation-building for sustainable development, and its interventions will continue to draw from the experience of former deputy governors across the country. He also highlighted the significance of Ganduje's visit, which coincided with his 66th birthday celebration. The event featured the cutting of Akomas' 66th birthday cake.
Ganduje also urged Nigerians not to lose confidence in the country but to continue supporting efforts aimed at building a more united and prosperous nation. He described platforms like the Forum as essential in enlightening citizens and promoting national integration, democratic sustainability, and good governance.
The Forum's efforts to promote nation-building and sustainable development have been acknowledged by various stakeholders, including former President Goodluck Jonathan and Senator Andy Uba. The organization's commitment to utilizing the experience of former deputy governors to contribute to national development has been praised by Ganduje and other stakeholders.
Key points
- Former Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, urges Forum of Former Deputy Governors to prioritize nation-building and democratic development.
- The Forum's fifth national conference will focus on bridging the leadership-citizen disconnect on orientation, attitude, character, culture, and tradition towards sustainable development.
- The Forum's central message remains nation-building for sustainable development, drawing from the experience of former deputy governors across the country.
