The FCT Youth Stakeholder’s Forum has commended President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, for nominating Hon. Zaphaniah Jisalo, as Minister in the Federal Executive Council (FEC) to represent the Federal Capital Territory.
They reasoned that the nomination of the FCT indigene is a reflection of the President’s inclusiveness, fairness, equality, which is good for political development of the country.
The spokesperson of the Forum, Bitrus Lawrence Garki (BLG), who made the commendation during a press conference in Abuja, appreciated the President for breaking a long-standing jinx and demonstrating a commitment to social justice for all the original inhabitants of FCT.
The group said the Original Inhabitants of FCT have faced numerous challenges in having their voices heard and the rights upheld over decades in the by previous administrations.
According to the Forum, for too long, the FCT has struggled with issues of representation and recognition for its indigenous population, despite being in the nation’s capital.
“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.
“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.
“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,” he said.
A stakeholder of the Forum, Sarah Tukura, said the Forum was optimistic that President Tinubu’s cabinet would foster democracy, improved regional integration, cooperation and coordinated monetary affairs to cushion the hardship in the country.
Tukurah maintained that the group also wish to acknowledge and appreciate President Tinubu’s commitment to inclusivity and unity in the country by taking this step, saying that, he has demonstrated his understanding of the importance of bridging the gap between the FCT and the rest of the country.
She said 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.
According to her, 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.
However, the stakeholder acknowledged that this
actions will go a long way in fostering a sense of belonging among the FCT Original Inhabitants and promoting a harmonious relationship between the people.
