Ganduje calls for commitment to nation-building, democratic sustainability

By Umar Idris Shuaibu

Former Kano State Governor, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, has urged Nigerians to put the nation first and remain committed to its development, rather than prioritising personal, ethnic or religious interests.

“On those who are pessimistic about the Nigerian project, my advice is that we should remain committed to nation-building and the sustainability of democracy.

“We should put the nation first rather than focus on individual interests, ethnic or religious considerations,” Ganduje said.

Ganduje, National Patron of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN), made the call on Wednesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit to the forum’s headquarters.

He expressed satisfaction with the activities of the forum, describing it as an important platform for people with experience in governance, public service and politics to contribute to national development.

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He said the establishment of a permanent headquarters would provide an enabling environment for members to plan and contribute their experience to national affairs.

Ganduje also commended the forum for organising its annual conference, with the 2026 edition scheduled for October 20 and 21.

He said the forum’s focus on good governance and inclusiveness was important to strengthening public institutions and promoting national development.

The former governor urged other former public office holders to establish similar platforms through which they could deploy their experience and expertise to contribute to national discourse.

He said platforms such as the FFDGN could help enlighten citizens, promote national integration and encourage constructive participation in public affairs.

Ganduje also congratulated the Chairman of the forum, Dr Chris Akomas, on his 66th birthday, saying his presence at the celebration was coincidental.

He said birthdays provided opportunities for individuals to reflect on their achievements and contributions to society.

Earlier, Akomas said the forum had evolved through the efforts and sacrifices of former deputy governors who believed the platform could contribute to national development.

He said former President Goodluck Jonathan was the Grand Patron of the forum, while Ganduje and Senator Aliyu Wammako served as National Patrons.

Akomas said Ganduje had consistently supported the forum by attending its activities or sending high-level representatives whenever he was unable to attend personally.

He described Ganduje’s visit as significant, saying it provided an opportunity to inspect the forum’s facilities and discuss preparations for its forthcoming conference.

According to him, the forum’s activities have focused on promoting sustainable development and sharing the experiences of former public officials.

Akomas said the 2026 conference would focus on the disconnect between citizens and leadership and examine ways to bridge the gap at different levels of society.

He said the forum would also consider the roles of attitude, orientation, character, culture and tradition in strengthening leadership and promoting sustainable development.

The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria is a non-partisan body comprising former deputy governors from across the country’s 36 states.

It serves as a platform for members to share governance experiences, promote national development and offer policy recommendations on issues affecting Nigeria’s governance and socio-economic development.