By Vincent Egunyanga, Abuja
The Chairman of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors in Nigeria, Dr Chris Akomas, has said the forum wants constitutional roles for deputy governors.
Speaking at the Forum of former Deputy Governors of Nigeria’s 3rd National Conference in Abuja, Akomas, a former deputy governor of Abia State, said the forum had made some progress since its inception.
While calling for constitutional roles for deputy governors, he called on states to emulate the federal government by establishing state Economic Councils headed by deputy governors, just like the Vice President heads the National Economic Council.
He said, “Nation-building is a formidable challenge that requires unwavering commitment and innovative thinking. The role of deputy governors has historically been one of support and stabilisation of the governance structures.”
He said the conference, with the theme “Strategic solutions for good governance, food security and sustainable growth in Nigeria, aims to harness the collective wisdom of our forum and fellow Nigerians to generate innovative, ground-breaking ideas and pragmatic solutions to the pressing issues of the day.”
Akomas said the forum aims to sustain and maintain Nigeria’s unity, which he said is sacrosanct.
He said he wants democracy to thrive in the country and that Nigerians enjoy the dividends.
