…..thanks his colleagues for the opportunity
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State has emerged as the new Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF).
AbdulRasaq would replace Governor Aminu Waziri Tambuwal of Sokoto State whose tenure of office would elapse on May 29.
This was contained in a communiqué signed by Tambuwal at the end of the 7th emergency meeting of the state governors held on Tuesday night in Abuja.
According to the communique, Governor Abdulrazaq emerged through consensus while Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde was chosen as vice chairman of the forum.
“On the leadership of the Forum, the Governor of Kwara State, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, emerged the new Chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum through a consensus, and the Governor of Oyo State Seyi Makinde is now the vice chairman,” the communique read in part.
“Members expressed satisfaction with the success of the just concluded induction for new and returning governors that took place between the 14th and 19th of May, 2023.
“Members committed to sustained collaboration among the states through enhanced peer review, learning at the sub-national level and deepening the relationship with the federal government and other institutions.
“Finally, members were briefed by the Chairman of the Forum that the Hon. Minister of Finance has granted the request of the Forum to immediately stop further deductions from the accounts of states to meet Local Government Councils London Paris Club obligations and the monies so far deducted be paid back to the states.”
Reacting, Governor AbdulRasaq in a statement on Wednesday through his spokesperson, Rafiu Ajakaye thanked his colleagues for the opportunity to serve them.
“I want to thank Allah, exalted is He, for the historic event in which my brother Governors bestowed upon me the Chairmanship of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF),” the statement read
“The significance and the huge responsibilities of this office are not lost on me.
The governor among others pledged to uphold the ideals and vision of the NGF
as a most credible, authoritative, influential and effective inter-party platform for consensus building and peaceful resolution and advancement of pan-Nigeria goals, interests and aspirations.
“I hereby pledge to uphold the ideals and vision of the NGF whilst recognising and appreciating the eminent track record of the institution as a most credible, authoritative, influential and effective inter-party platform for consensus building and peaceful resolution and advancement of pan-Nigeria goals, interests and aspirations.
“l will ensure regular consultation with all members in order to arrive at consensus on all issues for the advancement and promotion of national interest, peace, progress, and stability of the nation.”
“As a body, we will also continue our tradition of maintaining a close and cordial relationship with His Excellency the President, the National Assembly, all Federal and State institutions, the business community, the civil society, media, and development partners.
“Finally, l wish to thank my dear colleagues for the confidence reposed in me as the new Chairman of NGF,” the statement added