The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria has called for urgent national reorientation and stronger collaboration between leaders and citizens to address the country’s growing socio-political challenges and accelerate national development.
The call 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 this October.
Speaking after the meeting, the Chairman, stressed that leadership goes beyond public office, noting that every Nigerian has a role to play in building a better society.
“Leadership is not only about governance. It starts from the home, the community and every level of society. We all have a responsibility to close the leadership gaps and work together for a better Nigeria,” he stated.
He also said recommendations from previous editions of the conference have contributed to public policy, citing the Federal Government’s recent distribution of hybrid cocoa seedlings as one of the forum’s earlier recommendations.
On the country’s security and political tensions, the forum urged Nigerians to remain united and prioritise peaceful coexistence.
“What happens to one happens to all. Be your brother’s keeper. There may be disagreements, but our focus should remain on unity because when we work together, we build a stronger nation,” he said.
The forum commended former President Jonathan for his continued support as its Grand Patron and expressed optimism that the October conference would produce practical recommendations to advance nation building and sustainable development in Nigeria.
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.”
“Our focus is nation building. We want to bridge the leadership-citizen disconnect by promoting the right culture, orientation, character and values that will drive sustainable development,” he said.
He explained that the conference would bring together stakeholders from different sectors to examine the widening gap between leaders and citizens and propose practical solutions for strengthening governance and rebuilding public trust.
