The National Peace Committee (NPC) with a former Head of State, Gen. AbdulSalami Abubakar (rtd) as chairman, and Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah (convener), has said it would convene a national stakeholders meeting in Abuja, as part of measures to tackle the multiple challenges facing the country.
According to an issued statement yesterday, co-signed by the duo, the committee said the 2023 General Elections were marked by a renewed sense of optimism and desire for change among Nigerians.
They also said this optimism was demonstrated in the number of people who registered for the 2023 elections being 93, 469, 008 million, compared to just 57, 938, 945 million registered voters in 1999.
The statement read in part: “Nigerians believed that the 2023 elections would usher in an administration that would swiftly address the nation’s lingering socio-economic challenges. The preparations for the elections heightened the hopes for positive socio-economic and political change. However, the outcome of the keenly contested presidential elections amplified the regional and ethnic cleavages that have underpinned our journey of nationhood”.
It further said additionally, the well-intentioned policy of the government to improve the lives and well-being of Nigerians is yet to meet the expectations of the citizens and the economic strain is being felt by all and sundry.
The committee said the meeting will be held on 26th September 2024 at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.
According to the committee, “This meeting will provide a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration, where the concerns and aspirations of the people can be discussed, and the outcomes are presented to the government.
“It is a crucial step towards bridging the gap between the government and its citizens, ensuring that their voices are heard, and their legitimate concerns addressed”.
