The Nigeria Governors` Forum (NGF) has pledged to continue to ensure the delivery of true dividends of democracy to citizens as the country marked 55 years of independence on Thursday.

The pledge is contained in a statement issued in Abuja by the Chairman of the Forum, Gov. Abdulaziz Yari of Zamfara.

Yari also assured that as major stakeholders, the Forum would work toward the development of the whole country.

He said: “State governors, as major stakeholders toward the development of this country, will continue to ensure the delivery of true democracy dividends to the people. We will also work hard toward the advancement of the nation always.”

He then urged Nigerians to shun divisive tendencies at all times, and work toward promoting unity and peaceful co-existence in the country.

The Forum chairman said that the independence anniversary should remind Nigerians of their common root and destiny.

He added that “as Nigerians, we need to see ourselves as change agents wherever we find ourselves and join hands with government at all levels to enthrone the desired change.

“Government alone cannot bring about change and development in the country.”

He congratulated Nigerians for the country’s achievements 55 years after independence, saying the current challenges bedevilling the country would be tackled.

Yari commended the military for the success recorded in the fight against insurgency in the North East and charged those behind the act to shield their swords. (NAN)

•Photo shows NGF Chairman, Abdulaziz Yari.

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