1 week ago
23
Former elected chairmen of different local government areas in Nigeria, under the umbrella of National Association of Former Local Government Council Chairmen in Nigeria (NALGON) Emeritus, have moved to unite different aggrieved sections of the country for national development.
Speaking Thursday in Abuja while unveiling the ‘One Nigeria’ project, member representing Kaura Namoda/Birnin Magaji Federal Constituency of Zamfara State in the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Aminu Sani Jaji PhD, who is also Chairman Central Planning Committee for “One Nigeria Project”, said division poses a serious threat to the security, peace and stability of the nation, hence the need for unity.
He said: “NALGON Emeritus has come together after recognizing the crucial importance of unity at this critical time. National interest has increasingly been undermined by divisive politics, with unity, which should be our guiding principle, often overshadowed by sentiments. This division poses a serious threat to the security, peace, and stability of our nation.
“Local government administration has a rich history, from the pre-colonial era to the colonial period and up to independence. Over the years, reforms have shaped the structure of local governance, which now includes 774 local governments and 8,809 councilors representing legislative wards nationwide. Local governments were designed to bring government closer to the people, addressing essential issues and ensuring effective governance.
“NALGON sees itself as a key player in Nigeria’s democracy, understanding the needs of the people at the grassroots level. We have come together to contribute our voices and strength to becoming an objective force for hope, unity, and reconciliation-without compromise.
“After careful reflection on the challenges confronting us, we believe it is imperative to collaborate with other stakeholders to address the pressing issues of security, peace, unity, and stability. These elements are fundamental to national growth, prosperity, and justice at all levels. One Nigeria Project represents our collective vision for a powerful, united, and progressive nation.
“As responsible citizens, we must support government policies that lead to positive reforms and societal progress, NALGON Emeritus is committed to backing such policies at all , for no country can grow without peace and unity. Nigeria is a nation blessed with over 400 ethnic groups, diverse languages, abundant natural resources, and a youthful population. Reflecting on the horrors of the 1967 civil war and the current security challenges, it is clear that Nigeria must unite to overcome its difficulties.”
He added: “While our leaders and elites have often struggled to address insecurity, divisions, and socioeconomic problems, their efforts have not always yielded success. NALGON, however, initiated a consensus-building process among the elites and leaders, fostering common understanding through the One Nigeria Conference. This initiative complements the current administration’s efforts to promote unity, enhance security, and strengthen democratic institutions.
“We also acknowledge the strides of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in addressing critical issues such as insecurity and the economic crisis. His reforms to improve economic stability and security are commendable. We are confident that these efforts will help transition Nigeria from recession to prosperity. Additionally, as grassroots politicians, we commend the President’s commitment to local government autonomy, which demonstrates his political will to strengthen democracy and create a more inclusive governance system.
“I call on all stakeholders to support the One Nigeria Project, bringing people together to work towards achieving our common objectives. We are particularly focused on addressing the ongoing debates over the proposed tax reforms, which have sparked divisions. Thanks to the intervention of NALGON Emeritus, there is now a more constructive dialogue. We urge both the executive and legislative arms of government to approach these reforms with the nation’s best interests in mind to avoid further disunity.
“We also commend the support of our Board of Trustees, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, for their invaluable contribution to the One Nigeria Project. We recognize the efforts of the National Security Advisor, Nuhu Ribadu, and all security agencies for their role in maintaining peace and protecting lives across Nigeria.
“Equally, we call on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other support groups to join us in supporting the One Nigeria Project, which embodies the vision of our founding fathers.
“We are proud to announce that the journey toward the One Nigeria Project has begun, and there is no turning back. We will embark on a comprehensive sensitization campaign at the local government, state, and zonal levels before culminating in the official launch of the One Nigeria Project in Abuja.
“Unity is the only way forward in overcoming the challenges confronting us as a nation. The One Nigeria Project is essential not only for national progress but also to inspire people across Africa and the world.”
Also speaking, the National Chairman of NALGON Emeritus, Hon. Shaba Ibrahim, said the association is not for profit, but interested in the unity of the country, lamenting that Nigerians are divided along ethnic lines.
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