Akume urges Nigerians to unite for economic, democratic progress
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has urged Nigerians to unite for the sake of the country’s economic and democratic progress.
He made this call when he received a delegation from the forum of former deputy governors of Nigeria at his office in Abuja.
He said that a prosperous country would benefit all Nigerians and that collaboration would foster ideas that would enhance the economy and democracy.
“We have to work together for the country’s peace and the development of our democracy and economy,” Akume said.
“We have to always be united as a people. As the Sadauna of Sokoto used to say, our diversity is our strength and our knowledge. That is still true today.
“Together, we will keep coming up with things that will grow this democracy, grow our economy.
“That is what we need in this country. If there is prosperity, we will all benefit. If there is chaos, we will all suffer.
“So, given your maturity, I have every reason to believe that this forum will continue to play a key role in promoting the unity and stability of our dear country.”
The chairman of the forum, Chris Alozie, said that the stability of the government is vital for the development of Nigeria.
He said that the forum would hold its annual conference on October 21 to promote harmonious relationship and stability at the subnational level.
“The summit is aimed at improving cordial relationship to ensure that the relationship between various stakeholders in the running of affairs of the states, capture and help us achieve the developmental goals as set by the states and the nation at large,” Alozie said.
“If we do well, if there is stability, if there is unity, if there is peace, if there is understanding in the running of affairs of our states, it will also support and strengthen the government at the center so that development can be easier, seamless and more understandable.
“Above all, our focus and target is for peace, unity and progress of the country.
“Our main goal is the public interest, so that at the end of the day, governance and those of us in government will deliver to the people.”
Speaking with journalists after the visit, Alozie said that the conference would also address the crisis between governors and their deputies, tapping from experience of those who once occupied the same office.
“We have people who have served as deputy governors, that became governors and that are still very much with us,” he said.
“We will be bringing out their experiences. This is a reservoir of expertise and knowledge and that is why we are ensuring that we come together to make this available to our nation for the well-being, goodness and progress of the country.”
