The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN) has called for far-reaching reforms in leadership recruitment, public service delivery, governance and national institutions to rebuild citizens’ trust and accelerate sustainable development.
The call was contained in a communiqué issued at the end of the Forum’s Fifth National Conference in Abuja and jointly signed by its National Chairman, Dr Chris Akomas; Deputy National Chairman, South, Hazeem Gbolarumi; and Deputy National Chairman, North, Mukhtar Ahmed-Anka.
The conference, chaired by former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Bello Masari, with former Delta State Governor, Senator Ifeanyi Okowa, as co-chairman, focused on strengthening institutions and bridging the gap between political leaders and citizens.
The Forum commended the Federal Government and security agencies for their efforts to address insecurity but urged sustained investment in the security sector to enhance operational capacity and improve national security.
It also called on the government to harness Nigeria’s youthful population and abundant agricultural and solid mineral resources to drive economic growth, while strengthening the country’s intellectual and technological capacity.
The Forum further stressed the need to complete the Ajaokuta Steel Complex, describing industrial development as critical to national progress.
On public service reform, the former deputy governors urged governments to make competence and character key considerations in recruitment and appointments, insisting that merit should guide selection processes.
They also called for the full implementation of clear service standards across government institutions, covering processing timelines, communication, accessibility, complaints handling and feedback mechanisms to improve service delivery and accountability.
The Forum said Nigeria’s leadership recruitment process needed to be reassessed to ensure that credible and competent individuals emerged as leaders capable of earning public trust and democratic legitimacy.
It also urged political leaders to create opportunities for young Nigerians to excel in digital innovation and creative industries, while advocating an effective regulatory framework to guide the responsible use of artificial intelligence in the country.
To promote inclusive governance, the Forum proposed institutionalised gender quotas, including reserved executive positions and legislative seats for women, youths and marginalised minorities at the federal, state and local government levels.
The communiqué further recommended a strategic government communication blueprint requiring public officials to communicate openly and honestly about government achievements, policy decisions and challenges. According to the Forum, transparent communication would help reduce public suspicion and strengthen citizens’ confidence in governance.
It also called for stronger advocacy and public enlightenment on Chapter Two of the 1999 Constitution, particularly its Fundamental Objectives and Directive Principles of State Policy, to promote patriotism, responsible citizenship and a better understanding of government obligations.
On cultural values, the Forum urged governments at all levels to preserve and adapt enduring traditions that promote ethical leadership, social cohesion, family and community loyalty, and mutual respect between leaders and citizens.
The former deputy governors also advocated an effective reintegration programme for ex-convicts to support their return to society and reduce the risk of reoffending.
They called for the formalisation and strengthening of ward-level consultative assemblies involving community representatives to establish regular channels of communication between elected officials and citizens.
The Forum further stressed the need to improve teachers’ remuneration, noting the importance of teachers in shaping responsible citizens and instilling positive values in younger generations.
It also urged that the constitutional role of traditional rulers be clearly defined to strengthen their contribution to cultural preservation and contemporary governance.
The Forum maintained that rebuilding public confidence, strengthening national institutions and promoting accountable leadership were essential to achieving sustainable development in Nigeria.
The conference was held under the theme, “Rethinking Nation-Building: Bridging the Leadership-Citizen Disconnect through Orientation, Attitude, Character, Culture and Tradition for Sustainable Development.”
By Georgina Humphrey
