The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria says leadership is not limited to those occupying public office, but is the responsibility of every citizen.
Speaking after a closed-door meeting in Abuja where the group briefed a former President, Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan on preparations for its fifth annual conference scheduled for October, the Chairman of the forum, Dr Chris Akomas, pointed out that leadership begins within families, communities, and other levels of society.
Dr Akomas, a former Deputy Governor of Abia State, also stressed the need for the citizenry to work together to bridge leadership gaps and contribute meaningfully to national development.
He therefore called for urgent national reorientation and closer collaboration between leaders and citizens as part of efforts to address the country’s growing socio-political challenges and promote sustainable national development.
On the nation’s security challenges and political tensions, he appealed to Nigerians to remain united and embrace peaceful coexistence.
The Former Abia Deputy Governor further urged citizens to continue supporting one another despite their differences, emphasizing that unity, patriotism, and collective responsibility are essential for building a stronger and more prosperous nation.
The forum also commended former President Jonathan for his continued support as its Grand Patron and expressed confidence that the forthcoming October conference would produce practical recommendations to strengthen nation-building, improve governance, and drive sustainable development.
Dr. Akomas announced that this year’s conference is themed, “Rethinking Nation Building: Bridging the Leadership-Citizen Disconnect Through Culture, Orientation, Character and Tradition for Sustainable Development.”
According to him, the conference will bring together stakeholders from various sectors to examine the widening disconnect between leaders and citizens and develop practical strategies for rebuilding public trust, enhancing governance, and fostering sustainable national development across Nigeria.
Dr. Akomas disclosed that recommendations from previous editions of the forum’s annual conference have influenced public policy, citing the Federal Government’s recent distribution of hybrid cocoa seedlings as one of the forum’s earlier proposals that has now been implemented.
