Senators from the Northern part Nigeria have assured the people of the region of their commitments towards addressing concerns regarding certain decisions and policies put forth by the Nigerian Government.
The Senators spoke in reaction to the outrage that greeted the decision by the Nigerian government to relocate the headquarters of Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, FAAN and Central Bank of Nigeria, CBN from Abuja to Lagos.
The northerners have also raised concern over what they described as lopsided allocation of funds in the 2024 budget, calling on their representatives at the National Assembly to rise up against any move to undermine Northern region.
However, in a statement by its spokesman, Suleiman Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South Senatorial District, the Forum of Northern Senators said, it was committed to addressing the concerns of the Northerners over the government decisions.
Senator Sumaila noted that, as representatives of the people at the national level, there is the need to address the concerns over lopsidedness in the distribution and allocation of resources in the 2024 budget, relocation of some federal agencies from Abuja to Lagos.
“As representatives of the people at the national level (Senate), we are committed to addressing the concerns and feelings of our constituents regarding certain decisions and policies put forth by the federal government – lopsidedness in the distribution and allocation of resources in the 2024 budget, relocation of some federal agencies from Abuja to Lagos,” he said.
According to Sumaila, the Forum understand the importance of fostering harmoniums relationship between the government and its citizens.
He disclosed that the Forum was undergoing collective efforts to seek an amicable resolution to the pressing issues, within the confines of constitution and existing laws.
“We understand the importance of fostering a harmonious relationship between the government and its citizens, and it is in this spirit that we are announcing our collective efforts to seek an amicable resolution to these pressing issues, within the confines of our constitution and existing laws.
“First and foremost, let us assure our constituents that we have taken their concerns seriously and are actively engaging with our colleagues in order to address these matters effectively. We firmly believe in the power of open dialogue and collaboration to bring about positive change for our nation.
“Throughout our term in office, our primary objective has been to advocate for the well-being and best interests of those we represent. We recognize the significance of our role as a bridge between the people and their government, and it is with great responsibility and dedication that we undertake this task.” Senator Sumaila explained.
The Forum urged Northerners to remain patient as it explores “avenues for dialogues, engage in peaceful negotiations, and deploy legal measures where necessary.
“Rest assured, our actions align with the constitutional framework and the laws of the land, as we endeavor to uphold justice and fairness.
“It is our belief that through effective communication, mutual respect, and a shared vision, we can forge a path that leads to positive change. We will engage the executive branch of the government and the leadership of the Senate and the relevant stakeholders to actively listen to the concerns of Nigerians and provide updates on our progress.
“We encourage everyone to participate in these channels of communication, ensuring that their voices are heard and their perspectives valued.
Recalled that, recently, an internal memo signed by FAAN’s Managing Director, Olubunmi Kuku, Nigeria’s Aviation Minister, Festus Keyamo, directed that the agency’s headquarters be relocated from Abuja to Lagos.
The agency explained that the decision was meant to help to curb the waste of public resources and also prevent the rot of FAAN’s abandoned Lagos building among others
Similarly, the apex bank detailed a decongestion action plan designed to optimise its operational environment of the bank
“This initiative aims to ensure compliance with building safety standards and enhance the efficient utilisation of our office,” the memo read.
Confidence Okwuchi
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