— Calls for unity among Nigerians

By Johnbosco Agbakwuru, Abuja

Amidst the worsening security situation in the country, a civil society group under the aegis of Civil Society Organisations on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative, CSCHEI, said it has resolved to work with security agencies in the fight against insurgency.

CSCHEI also called on Nigerians to put aside their differences and work together with the government towards the promotion of national unity and economic development.

In a statement on Friday, signed by its Executive Director on NGOs and CSOs, Amb. Chukwuemeka Mgbemere, the group noted that the country is at a critical juncture in its history as it faces numerous challenges, making it imperative for all hands to be on deck to promote peace, unity, and development.

“We, the National Council, under the supervision of Civil Society Organisations on Community Advancement and Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative (CSCHEI), recognize the importance of unity and collective action in driving Nigeria’s development and prosperity,” it stated.

The statement further noted that members of the National Council of CSCHEI recognize the importance of unity and collective action in driving Nigeria’s development and prosperity.

“It is imperative that all Nigerians, regardless of political affiliation, tribe, or religion, come together to support the President and work towards a common goal of national unity and progress.”

It said far-reaching resolutions were taken after the 11th Council meeting in Abuja, such as the monitoring and evaluation of government projects, adding, “We commit to supporting the government in monitoring and evaluating all government projects and programmes to ensure transparency and accountability.”

On national budget implementation, it said it will assess the budget to ensure alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promote effective utilization of resources.

It further promised to collaborate with relevant government agencies on climate action advocacy and the integration of UN SDGs in all sectors, as well as evaluate the performance of ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) and report its findings to the public.

“We will ensure that all NGOs, CSOs, and CBOs are registered and accredited, and any unregistered or unaccredited organizations operating illegally or submitting unverifiable petitions will face sanctions,” it stated.

On escalating waves of insurgency, it said: “We resolve to work with security agencies to win the war against insurgency and promote national security.

“We call on all patriotic Nigerians to join us in this endeavour, putting aside our differences and working together towards a common goal of national unity and development. Together, we can build a stronger, more prosperous, and more united Nigeria.

“We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s history. As we face numerous challenges, it’s imperative we come together to promote peace, unity, and development.

“We must recognize our shared identity as Nigerians and celebrate our diversity. Let’s focus on our strengths, address our weaknesses, and work towards a common goal of national prosperity.”

The group urged Nigerians to embrace peace and tolerance, promote unity and inclusiveness, support national development initiatives, reject divisive tendencies and violence, and cultivate a culture of respect and empathy, saying, “Together, we can build a Nigeria that is peaceful and secure, prosperous and equitable, just and inclusive.”