Abuja:Former Kano State Governor, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has called on Nigerians to stay committed to nation-building and the sustainability of democracy. Ganduje, who serves as the National Patron of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN), made this appeal during a visit to the forum’s headquarters.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ganduje expressed his satisfaction with the forum’s efforts, noting that it provides a valuable platform for those with governance experience to contribute to national development. He praised the forum for organizing an annual conference, with the next edition scheduled for October 20 and 21, 2026, focusing on good governance, inclusiveness, and democratic sustainability.
Ganduje urged other former public office holders to create similar platforms to share their experiences for the benefit of national discourse. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing the nation over individual, ethnic, or religious interests, advocating for platforms like the FFDGN to help enlighten citizens and promote national integration.
During his visit, Ganduje coincidentally joined in celebrating the 66th birthday of the forum’s Chairman, Dr. Chris Akomas, and highlighted birthdays as opportunities for reflection on personal achievements and societal contributions.
Dr. Akomas noted that the forum has evolved through the dedication of former deputy governors who see it as a means to foster national development. He pointed out that former President Goodluck Jonathan is the Grand Patron, with Ganduje and Sen. Aliyu Wammako as National Patrons. Akomas praised Ganduje’s consistent support and emphasized the upcoming conference’s focus on bridging the gap between citizens and leadership, exploring the roles of attitude, character, and culture in strengthening leadership for sustainable development.
The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria is a non-partisan body that includes former deputy governors from the country’s 36 states. It aims to share governance experiences, promote national development, and offer policy recommendations on issues affecting Nigeria’s democratic governance and socio-economic growth.