8th GOCOP Conference: Former Army Chief Calls for Unified Efforts to Confront Nigeria’s Pressing Challenges
8th GOCOP Conference: Former Army Chief Calls for Unified Efforts to Confront Nigeria’s Pressing Challenges
At the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) 8th Annual Conference held at Reverton Hotel, Lokoja, Kogi State, Lieutenant General (Dr.) Tukur Yusufu Buratai (rtd.), former Chief of Army Staff and Nigerian Ambassador to Benin, stressed the need for unified efforts to confront Nigeria’s pressing challenges.
Represented by Dr. Mohammed Sani Abubakar, Director of Research at the Tukur Buratai Research Centre, Buratai outlined the insecurity and power deficit as key obstacles to Nigeria’s progress. “As Nigeria continues to confront pervasive insecurity that undermines social cohesion and economic development, the dialogue surrounding effective strategies to mitigate these threats is crucial,” he noted.
Buratai pointed out that Nigeria’s current power capacity of 12,522 MW falls significantly short of the required 98,000 MW, leaving only 40% of the population with access to electricity. He linked this shortfall to the nation’s energy poverty, adding that erratic supply and prolonged outages are common issues that must be addressed.
Buratai further called for support of President Bola Tinubu’s government reforms, particularly in infrastructure, to deliver the dividends of democracy. “Let us support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR as he rejigs the government towards improving the nation’s infrastructure,” he said.
In addition to addressing power and security issues, Buratai emphasized the need for Nigeria to leverage technology as part of its transition to a digital economy, noting that this shift offers a chance for economic diversification and resilience. He urged collective action to support the government’s initiatives, saying, “With a united front, Nigeria can overcome its challenges and achieve greatness.”
The conference, themed “Nigeria: Tackling Insecurity, Power Deficit, and Transitioning to a Digital Economy,” also featured contributions from other notable speakers. Mallam Yusuf Mamman, former Ambassador to Spain, warned about the dangers of unregulated social media, citing it as a threat to national security. He urged GOCOP to promote responsible use of new media for national development.
Former Governor of Cross River State, Senator Liyel Imoke, highlighted poverty, youth unemployment, and weak governance as factors fueling insecurity in the country. He commended the successes of Operation Lafiya Dole in reducing Boko Haram’s activities by 40% and advocated for a multi-faceted approach, including adequate funding and dialogue, to combat insecurity.
The event saw participation from key stakeholders, including representatives of the Kogi State Government, publishers, and other dignitaries.
