By Lateef Taiwo
Residents of the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, under the ages of FCT Youth Stakeholder’s Forum on Thursday lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on the nomination of former Chairman of Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC), Hon. Zephaniah Bitrus Jisalo, for screening by the Senate as minister.
The Group Coordinator, Bitrus Lawrence Garki while addressing the newsmen in Abuja said the nomination has given FCT residents a sense of belonging as there has not been nomination of such kind since the return of democracy in 1999.
Him, on behalf of FCT Youth Stakeholder’s Forum extends its heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for breaking a long-standing jinx and demonstrating a commitment to social justice for all the original inhabitants othe Federal Capital Territory (FCT). We commend the President’s recent nomination of Hon. Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo (Yerima Garki) as a ministerial nominee, which is a significant step in the right direction toward inclusivity and faimess for the Original Inhabitants and residents of the FCT.
He expressed that for so long, the FCT has struggled with issues of representation and recognition for its indigenous population. Despite being the nation’s capital, the Original Inhabitants have faced numerous challenges in having our voices heard and our rights upheld. The lack of an FCT indigene being nominated as a minister has been a source of concern and disappointment for the community, which has felt marginalized and excluded from the nation’s political landscape.
“President Tinubu’s decision to nominate an Hon. Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo, Yerima Garki, as a minister signals a refreshing change in attitude towards the plight of the Original Inhabitants. It is an acknowledgment of our role as key stakeholders in the development and governance of the capital city. This historic gesture sets a precedent for future administrations to follow and reinforces the principle of social justice for all Nigerians, regardless of our geographical location.”
He added: “The FCT Youth Stakeholder’s Forum believes that the nomination of an FCT indigene as a minister will not only pave the way for increased representation at the federal level but also empower and inspire other indigenous individuals to participate actively in politics and leadership roles. By recognizing the talents, skills, and potential of the Original Inhabitants, the government can harness the collective strength of all its citizens to achieve greater heights of progress and prosperity.
“We also wish to acknowledge and appreciate President Tinubu’s commitment to inclusivity and unity in the country. By taking this step, he has demonstrated his understanding of the importance of bridging the gap between the FCT and the rest of the country. actions will go a long way in fostering a sense of belonging among the FCT Original Inhabitants and promoting a harmonious relationship between the residents of the capital city and those from other regions.
“The FCT Youth Stakeholder’s Forum reiterates its unwavering support for President Tinubu’s vision for a better Nigeria and encourages other political leaders to emulate his approach to governance. We believe that the progress of any nation lies in its ability to harness the potentials of all its citizens, irrespective of our backgrounds. Inclusivity in governance is not only a constitutional imperative but also a moral obligation that will strengthen the fabric of our society.
“As we celebrate this historic milestone, we also recognize that there is much more work to be done to address the challenges faced by the Original of the FCT. The FCT Youth Stakeholder’s Forum remains committed to partnering with the government and other stakeholders to find lasting solutions to issues such as infrastructural development, land rights, service delivery and the protection of the unique cultural heritage of the indigenous people.
“In conclusion, we extend our profound gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his bold and visionary leadership in nominating an FCT indigene as a minister. This landmark decision represents a triumph for social justice and inclusivity in our beloved nation. The FCT Youth Stakeholder’s Forum stands ready to support and collaborate with the government in ensuring that the dreams and aspirations of the original inhabitants of the FCT become a reality.”
Also speaking, a former supervisory councillor for Jiwa ward, Mr Adamu Abari, advised Jisalo to live up to expectations by addressing issues facing FCT residents when he is confirmed by the Senate.
“We have many issues facing the FCT and would like Hon. Jisalo to address them when he gets into office. We trust in his capabilities to help President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to achieve his plans for Nigerians,” he said.
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