The National Peace Committee (NPC), led by former head of state Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd) and convened by Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, has announced its intention to host a national stakeholders meeting in Abuja.
This initiative aims to tackle the various challenges currently confronting Nigeria.
In a joint statement, the committee emphasized the renewed optimism and desire for change demonstrated by Nigerians during the 2023 general elections. This positive sentiment was evidenced by the remarkable increase in voter registration, which saw 93,469,008 individuals registered for the 2023 elections, compared to only 57,938,945 registered voters in 1999.
The NPC stressed the importance of the upcoming meeting in fostering dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders to effectively address the country’s pressing issues. The statement noted, “Nigerians believed that the 2023 elections would usher in an administration capable of swiftly tackling the nation’s enduring socio-economic challenges.”
The committee acknowledged that while the preparations for the elections raised hopes for meaningful socio-economic and political change, the outcome of the fiercely contested presidential elections has exacerbated regional and ethnic divisions that have historically impacted Nigeria’s journey as a nation.
Moreover, the NPC pointed out that the government’s well-intentioned policies aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians have not yet met citizens’ expectations, resulting in widespread economic strain. The statement elaborated, “This dire situation has fueled frustration and discontent, culminating in recent nationwide protests over hunger.”
The demands articulated during these protests reflect the deep-rooted challenges facing the country and the urgent need for effective governance. In response, and in line with its mandate to mediate in both electoral and non-electoral matters that affect Nigeria’s peace and stability, the NPC has decided to convene a one-day town hall meeting with key stakeholders to engage in open discussions and explore pathways to support the government in addressing the current socio-political and economic crises.
The meeting is scheduled for September 26, 2024, at the NAF Conference Centre in Abuja. The NPC stated, “This meeting will provide a platform for constructive dialogue and collaboration, where the concerns and aspirations of the people can be voiced and the outcomes presented to the government. It is a vital step toward bridging the gap between the government and its citizens, ensuring their voices are heard and their legitimate concerns addressed.”