The National Association of Former Local Government Council Chairmen in Nigeria (NALGON Emeritus) has officially launched the One Nigeria Project, a national initiative aimed at fostering unity, security, and stability across the country. The unveiling took place during a world press conference in Abuja, led by Rt. Hon. Aminu Sani Jaji, PhD, a member of the House of Representatives and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the project.
Addressing journalists, Hon. Jaji emphasized the urgent need to strengthen national cohesion in the face of increasing divisions and security challenges. He noted that political and ethnic sentiments have continued to erode the nation’s unity, threatening peace and stability.
“Unity should be our guiding principle, yet it is often overshadowed by divisive politics. This poses a serious threat to our security and national development. The One Nigeria Project is a call for all stakeholders to come together in the interest of a peaceful and prosperous Nigeria,” he stated.
NALGON Emeritus, composed of experienced former local government leaders, is positioning itself as a driving force for grassroots governance and national reconciliation. With Nigeria’s 774 local government areas and 8,809 councilors playing a vital role in governance, the association seeks to harness this network to promote unity and collaboration.
Hon. Jaji highlighted the importance of engaging various stakeholders, including government institutions, traditional rulers, and civil society organizations, to ensure the project’s success. He reaffirmed NALGON’s dedication to supporting government policies that enhance peace, security, and economic stability.
In his remarks, Hon. Jaji commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s efforts in tackling insecurity and implementing economic reforms. He also praised the President’s commitment to local government autonomy, describing it as a crucial step toward strengthening democracy and improving governance at the grassroots level.
“A nation cannot progress without peace and unity. Nigeria is blessed with over 400 ethnic groups, diverse languages, and abundant natural resources. Yet, we must learn from history, particularly the horrors of the 1967 civil war, and the challenges we face today,” he said.
The One Nigeria Project aligns with the government’s ongoing initiatives to address national security concerns and economic hardship. Hon. Jaji urged lawmakers and policymakers to approach critical policy debates—such as the proposed tax reforms—with national unity in mind, avoiding decisions that could further polarize the country.
The unveiling of the One Nigeria Project marks the beginning of a nationwide awareness campaign. NALGON Emeritus plans to conduct sensitization programs across local government areas, states, and geopolitical zones, culminating in a grand launch event in Abuja.
Hon. Jaji acknowledged the support of Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, as well as National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and security agencies for their roles in maintaining peace across Nigeria. He also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, and civil society groups to join the movement in promoting national unity.
“The journey toward a united Nigeria has begun, and there is no turning back. This project is not just about political engagement; it is about securing the future of our great nation. We must all work together to ensure Nigeria remains a symbol of strength and unity for Africa and the world,” Hon. Jaji concluded.
As Nigeria continues to navigate complex socio-political challenges, the One Nigeria Project is set to be a rallying point for dialogue, policy engagement, and collaborative efforts to build a stronger, more unified nation.
