Stakeholders Call for Urgent Government Action to Address Public Discontent, Promote Sustainable Development
By Hussaina Yakubu
July 23, 2024
Stakeholders Called for Urgent Government Action to Address Public Discontent and Promote Sustainable Development
In a communiqué issued at the conclusion of a one-day stakeholders’ discussion on the state of the nation, organized by Arewa House, Centre for Research and Historical Documentation in Kaduna on Tuesday.
Participants urged the Federal and State Governments to implement programs addressing the root causes of public discontent, such as unemployment, poverty, and inadequate social services.
The group called for the immediate release of individuals arrested in connection with proposed protests, suggesting that this action would earn government respect and potentially diminish the momentum of the protesters.
Participants proposed exploring alternative avenues for addressing citizen grievances, such as town hall meetings, public consultations, and policy reforms.
They emphasized the importance of open and inclusive dialogue among government representatives, civil society organizations, and citizens to resolve underlying issues driving protests.
Recognizing the critical role of youth in shaping the nation’s future, the group recommended implementing youth empowerment programs that provide employment, skills training, and opportunities for active participation in societal development.
The communiqué stressed the need to strengthen institutions, including the judiciary, security agencies, and governance structures, to ensure accountability, transparency, and justice for all citizens.
Religious and community leaders were urged to guide their congregations in prayers for peace and prosperity and to counsel their followers on the importance of peaceful coexistence.
Affluent members of society were encouraged to assist the less privileged with necessities such as food and medicines.
The media was called upon to uphold ethical responsibilities in reporting unrest-related events, ensuring accuracy, fairness, and responsible journalism that promotes peace and national unity.
The group expressed deep concern over the dangers of fake news and misinformation, which can exacerbate tensions and incite violence.
Participants also addressed the role of political actors, urging them to prioritize upcoming local government elections as a legitimate channel for expressing grievances and effecting change.
They called on political figures to educate their members on peaceful and democratic participation methods and to avoid exploiting socio-economic conditions for personal gain.
The gathering proposed forming a delegation to interface with relevant authorities and organizing a similar youth-focused meeting under the Arewa House umbrella to discuss issues affecting young people and explore effective solutions.
A briefing from a Sudanese representative highlighted the irreparable consequences of hijacked protests in Sudan, serving as a cautionary tale.
Participants committed to promoting peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and sustainable development in Nigeria, upholding democracy, human rights, and social justice.
They presented this communiqué to the media, urging accurate and responsible conveyance of their discussions to the public, emphasizing the importance of peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and sustainable development.
The meeting included representatives from religious and traditional leaders, youth and student unions, trade unions, state governments, security agencies, academicians, opinion influencers, and media organizations.(NAN)