Conference of Former Speakers Proffer Solutions To Nigeria’s Economic Hardship

Former Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly of Nigeria say the hardship being faced by Nigerians is as a result of the economic and security challenges bedevilling the nation.

The Speakers noted this at a one-day meeting to address the critical issues plaguing the nation under the leadership of the former Governor of Plateau State, Senator Simon Lalong at Government House, Yola, Adamawa State capital.

After rigorous deliberations, the Conference centred its discussions on enhancing legislative autonomy and matters surrounding the Nigerian State.

The host Governor and keynote Speaker, Ahmadu Umaru at the opening session extolled the virtues of the legislature as the bastion of democracy.

The conference urged the Federal Government to as a matter of urgency embark on initiatives geared towards ameliorating the myriad problems 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 notes the need for prudent fiscal management, diversification of the economy, and the promotion of local production and entrepreneurship.

It reemphasized on the strengthening of institutions responsible for monetary policies and implementing measures to attract foreign investments that will contribute to stabilizing the exchange rate and fostering economic growth.

Security Situation

On recognizing the imperative of restoring peace and security across the nation, the Conference notes with concern the present security situation in the country.

While commending the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in tackling the security situation, it emphasized that individual members should explore further ways of assisting the President and Governors in curtailing the security situation in the country.

The conference noted that it is paramount to bolster collaborative efforts among security agencies, enhance intelligence-gathering mechanisms, and engage in community-oriented policing strategies.

Additionally, it advised investing in youth empowerment programs and addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as unemployment and poverty.

The rising cost of living

While understating the burden placed on citizens due to the rising cost of living, the conference called for concerted efforts to mitigate inflationary pressures through effective price control mechanisms, subsidies for essential commodities, and social welfare programs targeting vulnerable populations.

Furthermore, the conference called for infrastructure improvement, particularly in the transportation and energy sectors, that will reduce the cost of goods and services and enhance the overall living standards of the citizenry.

The conference also resolved that the National Assembly should reinstate statutory delegates for former Speakers.

In addition, it stressed that attention must be directed to addressing corruption, improving healthcare and education systems, promoting good governance, and ensuring inclusivity and equity in the national development agenda.

The conference reemphasized the collaborative efforts involving government, civil society, private sector, and international partners as essential in tackling these multifaceted challenges.

After inspection of completed and ongoing projects in Adamawa State, the Conference commended the exemplary leadership of Governor Fintiri in providing basic infrastructure in Adamawa State, while urging others to emulate the same when given any position of leadership.

The Conference was attended by the Governors of Adamawa, Delta and Ebonyi States and 125 former Speakers of the State Houses of Assembly, of whom some are serving Senators and members of the House of Representatives.

The Conference meanwhile emphasized the urgency of implementing these recommendations to foster sustainable development, enhance the well-being of all Nigerians, and promote national unity and prosperity.

 

 

 

 

Emmanuel Ukoh