Muhammad Tukur
While appreciating the participants in their various roles of shaping and deepening democracy for good governance, participants were advise to see themselves not only as a Conference of past legislative leaders, but equally as a leadership that has over the years impacted meaningfully on the overall development at the sub-National Level.
DELIBERATIONS:
At the end of the One (1) day meeting, participants convened to address critical issues plaguing the nation. After rigorous deliberations, the following resolutions and recommendations have been reached:
The meeting reviewed the State of the nation and noted the hardship being faced by Nigerians as a result of the economic and security challenges bedeviling the nation. The conference urges the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency embark on initiatives geared towards ameliorating the myriad problem involving all stakeholders and to bring a lasting solution to the crisis. It assured that it will not hesitate to continue to play its part in the effort of bringing security and succour to the people. The conference decried the falling value of the Naira and requested the monetary and fiscal authorities to find appropriate solutions to the challenges. It notes the need for prudent fiscal management, diversification of the economy, and the promotion of local production and entrepreneurship Strengthening institutions responsible for monetary policies and implementing measures to attract foreign investments that will contribute to stabilizing the exchange rate and fostering economic growth.
Security Situation: Recognizing the imperative of restoring peace and security across the nation, the Conference notes with concern the present security situation in the country, while commending the effort of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu in tackling the security situation, it emphasized that individual members should explore further ways of assisting the President and Governors in curtailing the security situation in the Country. The conference noted that It is paramount to bolster collaborative efforts among security agencies, enhance intelligence gathering mechanisms, and engage in community-oriented policing strategies. Additionally, it advised on investing in youth empowerment programs and addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as unemployment and poverty.
Rising Cost of Living: Understanding the burden placed on citizens due to the rising cost of living, concerted efforts should be made to mitigate inflationary pressures through effective price control mechanisms, subsidies for essential commodities, and social welfare programs targeting vulnerable populations. Furthermore, the conference advised on improving infrastructure, particularly in transportation and energy sectors, that will reduce the cost of goods and services and enhance overall living standards of the citizenry.
It was resolved also that the National assembly should reinstate statutory delegates for former Speakers.
Having gone round to inspect completed and ongoing projects in Adamawa State, the Conference acknowledges the exemplary leadership exhibited by the host Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, in providing basic infrastructure in Adamawa State and urges other members of the Conference to emulate same when given any position of leadership.
In addition to the aforementioned issues, it was also stressed that attention must be directed towards addressing corruption, improving healthcare and education systems, promoting good governance, and ensuring inclusivity and equity in national development agenda. Collaborative efforts involving government, civil society, private sector, and international partners are essential in tackling these multifaceted challenges.
The Conference was attended by the Governors of Adamawa, Delta and Ebonyi States. One Hundred and Twenty- Five former Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly, some of whom are serving Senators and members of the House of Representatives were among those attendance.
In conclusion, the Former Speakers Conference emphasized the urgency of implementing these recommendations to foster sustainable development, enhance the well-being of all Nigerians, and promote national unity and prosperity, and called on relevant stakeholders to take decisive actions in addressing the pressing issues for collective benefit of the nation.
RT. HON. SEN. SIMON BAKO LALONG, CON, KSGG
Chairman, Conference of Former Speakers of State Houses of Assembly of Nigeria & Senator Representing Plateau South Senatorial District,
17th February 2024.
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