Conference of Former Speakers review economic/security challenges bedeviling Nigeria.
By Yaro Sani in Yola
The Conference of Former Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly of Nigeria (COFSSHA) has reviewed the state of the nation and noted the hardship faced by Nigerians as a result of the economic and security challenges bedeviling the nation.
This was made known in a communique signed and issued by the Chairman of COFSSHA and Former Governor of Plateau state, Rt Hon, Sen Simon Bako Lalong after a one day meeting held in Yola , Adamawa state capital over the weekend.
The conference urged the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency, embark on initiatives geared towards ameliorating the myriad problem involving all stakeholders and to bring a lasting solution to the crisis.
It assured that it will not hesitate to continue to play its part in the effort of bringing security and succour to the people. The conference decried the falling value of the Naira and requested the monetary and fiscal authorities to find appropriate solutions to the challenges.
It also noted the need for prudent fiscal management, diversification of the economy, the promotion of local production and entrepreneurship, strengthening institutions responsible for monetary policies and implementing measures to attract foreign investments that will contribute to stabilizing the exchange rate and fostering economic growth.
The Conference noted with concern the present security situation in the country, while commending the effort of President Ahmed Bola Tinubu in tackling the security situation.
It however emphasized that individual members should explore further ways of assisting the President and Governors in curtailing the security situation in the Country.
They also noted that it is paramount to boost collaborative efforts among security agencies, enhance intelligence gathering mechanisms, and engage in community-oriented policing strategies. Additionally, it advised on investing in youth empowerment programs and addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as unemployment and poverty.
“Rising Cost of Living: Understanding the burden placed on citizens due to the rising cost of living, concerted efforts should be made to mitigate inflationary pressures through effective price control mechanisms, subsidies for essential commodities, and social welfare programs targeting vulnerable populations.
“Furthermore, the conference advised on improving infrastructure, particularly in transportation and energy sectors, that will reduce the cost of goods and services and enhance overall living standards of the citizenry. ” Communique read
Deliberations that will enhance Legislative Autonomy and matters surrounding the Nigerian State was also emphasized during the conference.
The Conference had in attendance the Host Governor, His Excellency Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri CON as the Keynote Speaker at the Opening session. The Governors of, Delta and Ebonyi States were also in attendance, while One Hundred and Twenty- Five former Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly, some of whom are serving Senators and members of the House of Representatives were among those in attendance.
Having gone round to inspect completed and ongoing projects in Adamawa State, the Conference acknowledged the exemplary leadership exhibited by the host Governor, Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, in providing basic infrastructure in Adamawa State and urged other members of the Conference to emulate same when given any position of leadership.
While appreciating the participants in their various roles of shaping and deepening democracy for good governance, participants were advised to see themselves not only as a Conference of past legislative leaders, but equally as a leadership that has over the years impacted meaningfully on the overall development at the sub-National Level.
In addition to the aforementioned issues, it was also stressed that attention must be directed towards addressing corruption, improving healthcare and education systems, promoting good governance, and ensuring inclusivity and equity in national development agenda.
