Abuja: The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN) has inaugurated a 14-member Renewed Hope Agenda Peer Review Group (RHAPRG) with the task of reviewing the implementation of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. The inauguration took place during the Forum’s General Meeting and Congress in Abuja, aiming to bolster its contributions towards governance and national development.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Chris Akomas, the National Chairman of FFDGN, stated that the newly formed committee will serve as a strategic advisory body. Its role is to assess, evaluate, and guide the effective implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda. The committee’s primary objective is to ensure that the agenda’s goals are achieved efficiently and equitably, while pinpointing challenges that may hinder progress.
Akomas emphasized that the committee’s recommendations will act as an advisory mechanism for both government and citizens, fostering accountability and inclusiveness in governance. He remarked that the balance provided by this mechanism would enable the Federal Government to reorganize resources efficiently and ensure timely completion of projects.
The terms of reference for the committee include an objective assessment and evaluation of the Renewed Hope Agenda, offering evidence-based policy advice, and enhancing stakeholder engagement across government, the private sector, and civil society. Akomas also mentioned that the Forum would continue partnering with relevant institutions to strengthen transparency, industrialization, and citizens’ participation in governance.
Former Plateau Deputy Governor, Dame Pauline Tallen, advocated for greater inclusion of women in governance, asserting that Nigeria cannot achieve balanced development without women’s voices in decision-making roles. She praised President Tinubu for his efforts but urged him to enhance women’s participation to strengthen democracy.
Alhaji Isah Ozi-Salami, the chairman of the newly inaugurated committee, noted that the group would identify areas of progress and improvement under the Renewed Hope Agenda. He acknowledged the successes and shortcomings of the agenda over the past two years and emphasized the committee’s role in addressing these issues.
Ozi-Salami highlighted that the committee comprises members from all geopolitical zones of the country to ensure diverse perspectives and balanced evaluation. He stated that the committee would propose ways to expand and strengthen the agenda for a greater national impact.
In a related development, the Forum re-elected Akomas as its National Chairman for another three-year term and inaugurated new executive members. In his acceptance speech, Akomas expressed gratitude for the members’ confidence and assured them of his team’s commitment to building on the Forum’s achievements.
Akomas highlighted the establishment of the Renewed Hope Agenda Peer Review Group as a significant milestone and pledged to sustain the momentum by collaborating closely with relevant authorities, experts, and stakeholders. He called for unity and active participation among members, emphasizing the importance of improving attendance and involvement in the Forum’s activities.