The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN) has called on the federal and state governments to use external borrowings for productive activities and public infrastructure development that will impact citizens’ standard of living.

In a communiqué issued at the end of the 3rd national conference of the forum, held in Abuja on Thursday, the forum also advocated for an amendment to the Public Procurement Act (PPA) to provide stiffer punishment for contract defaulters in the country.

Signed by Dr Chris Alozie Akomas and other executive members, the forum urged the authorities to enact laws at the federal and state levels to compel successive governments to complete ongoing projects before embarking on new ones.

They also said that economic policy consultations with the IMF and the World Bank should be open and inclusive of all major stakeholders in Nigeria.

The forum called on governors to ensure harmonious relationships with their deputies to promote sustainable democratic governance in the country. They noted that the entrenchment of good governance is essential for achieving food security and sustainable growth, aligning with the central pillar of the Renewed Hope Agenda.

The forum resolved to establish a Renewed Hope Agenda Peer Review Group and to complement government efforts in humanitarian disaster management by setting up a Humanitarian Support System.

They further urged the Federal Government to continue providing all necessary support to the military and other security agencies to ensure adequate security for Nigerians. They also stressed the importance of strengthening military initiatives that complement national food production efforts.

They added: “The government should strive to depoliticize agriculture in Nigeria by prioritising a community data bank of genuine farmers in all support programmes. Government is encouraged to introduce modern technology in agriculture, including equipment, high-yield seeds, and seedlings, to boost food production.

“Government should create agricultural hubs and ensure adequate security for these hubs, with community vigilante groups complementing national security efforts. The Bank of Agriculture should be revamped to fulfil its responsibilities effectively.

“Youth entrepreneurship skills should be promoted through agricultural extension centres and demonstration farms. There is an urgent need to strengthen agricultural institutions and link them with relevant research centres.

“The FFDGN, in appraising the current challenges of the country, commends the Federal Government for its efforts to combat the scourge of food insecurity.”