Lalong seeks Diaspora Northerners’ intervention in development

Chairman of Northern Governors’ Forum (NGF) and Plateau State governor, Simon Lalong, has enjoined Nigerians in the Diaspora, especially those from the North, to bring their experience, resources and connections to bear on development of the country.

The governor made the call in his keynote address at the annual convention of Zumunta Association, an umbrella organization of Nigerians from 19 Northern states, in Minnesota, United States of America.

He noted that unless the sons and daughters of the region stepped in to assist in evolving solutions to the region’s challenges, it would take a longer time to achieve.

Decrying a situation where about 40 per cent of youths, who constitute about 60 per cent of Nigeria’s population, are unemployed, Lalong said most of them would become easy prey to criminal elements.

His words: “Since most of them are unemployed, such talents and energy are either wasted or being channelled into negative and unproductive engagements, with significant unpalatable consequences for the country. This is more pronounced in the North where security crises occasioned by Boko Haram terrorists, kidnappings, cattle rustling, banditry and herdsmen/farmers clashes have come to dominate our lives”.

In a statement by his Director of Press Affairs, Dr. Makut Macham, the governor disclosed his resolve “to synergise and pursue policies and strategies that will tackle the challenges of insecurity faced by the region and promote peaceful coexistence.”