Former Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has urged the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria to use its experience in governance and politics to contribute more to nation-building and democratic development.
Ganduje made the call when he visited the headquarters of the Forum in Abuja, where he expressed satisfaction with the growth and activities of the organisation.
He said the Forum had provided a platform for former deputy governors to bring their wealth of experience to bear on issues of governance, democracy and national development.
The former governor said the establishment of a permanent headquarters would provide an enabling environment for members to plan, exchange ideas and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Ganduje also commended the Forum for sustaining its annual national conference, with this year’s edition scheduled for Oct. 20 and 21 in Abuja.
He urged Nigerians, particularly former public office holders, to remain committed to nation-building rather than allowing personal, ethnic or religious interests to override the collective interest of the country.
According to him, platforms such as the Forum can help enlighten citizens and promote national integration, democratic sustainability and good governance.
Ganduje said Nigerians should not lose confidence in the country, but continue to support efforts aimed at building a more united and prosperous nation.
He also described his participation in the 66th birthday celebration of the Forum’s National Chairman, Dr Chris Akomas, as a pleasant coincidence, saying birthdays provided opportunities for individuals to reflect on their achievements and contributions to society.
Earlier, Akomas said the Forum had grown through the commitment and sacrifice of former deputy governors who conceived and nurtured the idea of creating a platform for continued national service.
He acknowledged the support of the Forum’s Grand Patron, former President Goodluck Jonathan, and National Patrons, including Ganduje and Senator Andy Uba, among other stakeholders.
Akomas said Ganduje’s visit to the headquarters was significant, particularly as the Forum prepares for its fifth national conference scheduled for Oct. 20 and 21.
He said the conference would focus on the theme, “Rethinking Nation Building: Bridging the Leadership-Citizen Disconnect on Orientation, Attitude, Character, Culture and Tradition Towards Sustainable Development.”
According to him, 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 said the Forum’s central message remained nation-building for sustainable development, adding that its interventions would continue to draw from the experience of former deputy governors across the country.
High light of the event was the cutting of the 66th birthday cake of Dr. Chris Akomas.
