By Emmanuel Oloniruha

Former deputy governors under the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria have resolved to use their forthcoming national conference to address the disconnect between leadership and citizens.

The Chairman of the Forum, Dr Chris Akomas, disclosed this in Abuja after a meeting of its National Executive Council (NEC), which reviewed preparations for the 2026 annual national conference.

Akomas said the meeting, attended by members of the Board of Trustees and Executive Committee, was part of efforts to review the Forum’s programmes and finalise arrangements for the conference.

He said the Forum was committed to ensuring that the conference produced meaningful outcomes and communicated its objectives effectively to members, government and Nigerians.

According to him, the conference, scheduled for Oct. 20 and Oct. 21, will focus on the theme, “Rethinking Nation Building: Bridging the Leadership-Citizen Disconnect through Orientation, Attitude, Character, Culture and Tradition Towards Sustainable Development.”

Akomas said the disconnect extended beyond government-citizen relations to families, communities and other aspects of national life.

He expressed concern over drug abuse, addiction, poor application of education and skills, and the pursuit of quick wealth among some young Nigerians, saying they reflected deeper societal challenges.

The former deputy governor called for stronger family bonds and greater parental responsibility, urging parents to create time to interact with their children, share meals and provide guidance on responsible living.

He said addressing the disconnect would help Nigerians understand their responsibilities to one another and the wider society.

Also speaking, former Deputy Governor of Plateau State and former Minister of Women Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, urged mothers to play stronger roles in promoting family values and raising responsible children.

Tallen said mothers should make time for their families and work with their husbands to provide proper upbringing and guidance for their children.

She said children represented Nigeria’s future, urging parents to raise them to become better citizens and contribute to national development.

Also, Mr Abdulmalik Mahmood, Chairman of the Forum’s Board of Trustees, said the conference would bring together distinguished Nigerians to examine the country’s past, present situation and future.

Mahmood said the disconnect in Nigeria’s polity, leadership and governance remained a serious challenge.

He said the Forum would use the conference to examine the issues and present its position to Nigerians and government. (NAN)

Edited by Oluwole Sogunle