The National Peace Committee (NPC), chaired by former head of state Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd) and convened by Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, has announced that it will hold a national stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja as part of efforts to address the various challenges currently facing the country.
This was stated in a press release issued and signed by both leaders on Wednesday, September 25.
The committee said the 2023 general elections were marked by a renewed sense of optimism and desire for change among Nigerians.
It also said the optimism was demonstrated in the number of people who registered for the 2023 elections 93,469,008 million compared to just 57,938,945 million registered voters in 1999.
“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,” the statement read.
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It 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.
It said: “This dire situation has fuelled frustration and discontent, culminating in the recent nationwide protests on hunger.
“The demands made during the protests reflect the deep-seated challenges facing the country and the urgent need for responsive and effective governance.
“In response to this and in line with its mandate to mediate and intervene in electoral and non-electoral matters that impact the peace and stability of Nigeria, the NPC has decided to convene a one-day town hall meeting with critical stakeholders to discuss frankly and explore the pathways to support the government in addressing and overcoming the current socio-political and economic situation facing the country.”
The committee said the meeting will be held on 26th September 2024 at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.
It said: “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.”