Abuja: The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN) has called for a renewed commitment to industrialisation, leadership accountability, and innovation to reposition the country on a path of productivity and self-reliance. Speaking at the Forum's 4th Annual National Conference in Abuja, the Chairman, Dr Chris Akomas, emphasized the shared responsibility of citizens and leaders in building a resilient, self-sustaining economy.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the conference theme was 'Boosting Nigeria's Productive Capacity for National Growth and Self-Reliance: The Role of Leadership, Industry and Innovation in Policy Implementation'. Dr Akomas highlighted the urgent need to translate Nigeria's vast potential into measurable progress, stressing that nation-building requires unity of purpose, visionary leadership, and a collective commitment to the national good.
He noted that leadership, industry, innovation, and civic responsibility must converge in a 'grand coalition of purpose,' where leaders demonstrate integrity and foresight to drive sustainable development. The Forum, according to Akomas, offers a non-partisan platform for former and serving deputy governors to deliberate on issues critical to governance and national growth.
Akomas stated that the Forum's annual conferences since 2022 have consistently focused on strengthening governance, promoting food security, and fostering sustainable growth through strategic dialogue and policy recommendations. The 2025 conference aims to develop practical ideas for accelerating industrial productivity, promoting innovation, and ensuring effective policy implementation across all levels of government.
Former Senate President and conference chairman, Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim, commended the Forum's focus on nation-building, citing its active and impactful nature among former political officeholders. Anyim traced Nigeria's industrial decline to the 1966 military intervention, which disrupted national unity and entrenched ethnicity in governance. He emphasized that a productive economy requires sustained national commitment, policy protection, and a competitive manufacturing environment.
Sen. Aliyu Wamako, represented by Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Dingyadi, praised the Forum for fostering dialogue and collaboration among leaders. Wamako expressed his support for the Forum's initiatives, noting that such partnerships could drive reforms and legislative interventions at various levels. He stressed the importance of trust and cooperation among leaders to address governance challenges, economic revitalization, and social inclusion.
Dr Kenneth Ibe-Kalu, Director-General of the Forum, highlighted the Forum's growth since 2022, noting its expanded membership and strengthened engagement with serving deputy governors. He mentioned the establishment of the Renewed Hope Agenda Peer Review Group to monitor economic programmes and promote accountability in governance. Ibe-Kalu also emphasized the need for international partnerships to address youth unemployment, innovation, and development challenges.
The conference attracted participants from various sectors, all commending the Forum for its role in promoting good governance and national cohesion.