As violence erupts in parts of Nigeria, Nigerians, particularly the youths have been urged to adopt non-violence approach in expressing their feelings.
In the same vein, Nigerians have also been encouraged to be more productive and consume more of what they produce to boost the country’s economy.
These were some of the highlights of the Maiden National Dialogue held at Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Abuja on Thursday, May 19, 2022.
The Dialogue which was moderated by Dr Okey Ikechukwu said it encourages “non-violent expression of interests by Nigerians, particularly the youth on national issues” and that “productivity is the major driver of national currency.”
Participants also noted “that increased productivity, change in consumption pattern of Nigerians and improvement in national security will create an enabling environment for a reversal of the current state of the nation.
Other takeaway from the Dialogue was to urge that youth should make informed non-violent interventions in the polity with clear goals of development and sustainable social order.
It advised that “Nigerians should take advantage of the fact that information can easily be verified to investigate the source of any news item. This is with particular reference to recorded audio messages, distorted video clips and instigated fake news.
Another takeaway was a call for “active participation but informed and conflict-sensitive commentary on national issues via social media platforms” while urging “the government to be proactive in tackling the security challenges especially ensure the release of all those kidnapped on the March 24th train bombings in particular and others in captivity across Nigeria.”
At the same time, the Dialogue called on “the government to be serious in the area of public perception management, crisis and strategic communication and be more proactive in the information dissemination by carrying Nigerians along.”
Among those who attended the Dialogue was Brigadier General S. K. Usman (rtd), one time Spokesperson of the Nigerian Army.
