Former Abia deputy governor urges unity, shared vision at deputy governors’ forum
By: Zagazola Makama
The former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, has called for a renewed commitment to national unity, shared vision, and collaborative governance among leaders as key drivers of Nigeria’s progress.
Oko Chukwu made the call in his opening remarks at the 4th National Conference of the Forum of Deputy Governors of Nigeria held at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Intercontinental Hotel, Abuja.
Addressing participants, he said the gathering symbolized a collective determination to strengthen nation-building through inclusive dialogue and responsible leadership.
“Mbembele, Mbembele, welcome you all to this fourth AQA National Conference. With great humility and profound gratitude, I stand before you at this important point in our nation-building journey,” he began.
“Our gathering here reminds us that the destiny of our great nation rests not in the hands of a few, but in the collective resolve of all citizens. Nation-building is not a sprint—it is a continuous process, the daily work of our lives, survival, progress, and aspirations.”
He noted that the forum, founded by visionary leaders and public servants, has remained a vital platform for refining governance ideas and fostering collaboration across political and regional divides.
“This conference is an extension of our founders’ belief that Nigeria needs a platform to engage in refined, unbiased discourse on sustainable growth, unity of purpose, effective social policies, and global development,” he said.
Reflecting on the forum’s history, Oko Chukwu recalled that the first national conference was held in October 2013 at the Le Méridien Hotel and Golf Resort, Uyo, under the theme ‘Nation-Building in Challenging Times.’
He said the 2013 meeting laid the foundation for dialogue among deputy governors on national challenges and governance reforms, particularly during a period of political transition and heightened expectations ahead of the 2023 general elections.
“The journey has not been without challenges, but our collective resilience has kept the vision alive. Each conference reminds us that leadership must be guided by shared purpose, patriotism, and the will to serve,” he added.
The former deputy governor urged participants to use the 2025 conference as a platform to strengthen democratic values, improve intergovernmental relations, and advance people-centered governance across the country.
