2026: The Forum Of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria Poised to Tackle Expectations.

From Marcus Nkire

The Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria (FFDGN) had quite an eventful 2025: from inaugurating its new permanent secretariat and re-electing an already successful leadership, to inspiring the youth, investing in Small and Medium Scale enterprises and exposing burgeoning creatives through publicity, international collaboration and adequate funding.

Initially assumed as one of many money-grabbing, self-serving institutions littered all over the polity today, FFDGN has proved to be anything but that. The organization has been a breath of fresh air in a tightly congested self-interest-filled airspace.

Established in 1995, since its birth, the organization has sought to lift national standards, acting as a machinery of service to the country whilst proffering solutions when the need arises. Its intentions have never wavered from building a self-reliant and accountable leadership to create sustainable growth, invariably leading to a brighter future for Nigerians.

Led by chairman of the Forum and former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Dr Chris Akomas, the forum has aligned with several local and international bodies including the Polish-Nigeria Business council (PNBC), to achieve results, as that is the only language Akomas understands.

The bilateral partnership between FFDGN AND PNBC fostered a yielding outcome between Nigeria and Poland, strengthening business, cultural and educational union between Nigeria and Poland. This vision facilitated understanding by enabling platforms and services that enhance businesses, institutions and individuals from both countries to collaborate effectively and sustainably.

An alliance that proved beneficial for both countries, no doubt 2026 will have a lot more to unbox in this blossoming partnership between both organisations.

The Forum has no doubt pulled its weight over the years, unleashing various schemes and initiatives to support national growth. The cocoa initiative, an NGO in 2017, was incorporated to boost production and value chain. A creation that has proved till this day a massive wealth generator and Employment frontier thus far.

Under Akomas’s leadership, FFDGN has made a successful foray into the agriculture and textile world as shown by the recognitions earned at the 4th Annual National Conference last year. With Agro-traders Limited and Woollen and synthetic textile manufacturing limited both bagging the “Nation Builders Award” for their efforts in establishing business opportunities to aid the reduction of unemployment.

While commendations remain abound, Akomas and co do not plan to rest on their laurels. With set-out plans, objectives and activities already mapped out for 2026, it is imperative for observers and potential beneficiaries that suggestions on areas to consolidate be taken into account.

Internal vision is one thing and a very strong foundational footnote to begin with but external observation and inquest shines a distinct light, one we implore the FFDGN to adopt ahead of the 2026 agenda building and policy making strategy.

Leveraging Social Media and Strategic Partnerships to Advance the 2026 Agenda

To effectively address Nigeria’s economic and societal challenges, the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria must go beyond policy advocacy and embrace modern, citizen-focused engagement strategies. Two critical enablers for achieving the Forum’s 2026 objectives are the strategic use of social media and purposeful partnerships with non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

The Strategic Use of Social Media

Social media has become a powerful tool for shaping public discourse, influencing policy conversations, and engaging citizens directly. For the Forum, effective use of social media can help translate complex policy ideas into accessible messages that resonate with everyday Nigerians.

Through coordinated digital engagement, the Forum can amplify citizen voices, raise awareness about key economic and social issues, and promote informed public dialogue. Social media also provides a platform for real-time feedback, allowing the Forum to better understand public concerns and adapt its advocacy accordingly.

Beyond engagement, a strong digital presence enhances visibility and credibility, particularly among young Nigerians who increasingly consume news and policy content online. By positioning itself as a trusted source of insight and solutions, the Forum can strengthen its relevance in national conversations and ensure its perspectives reach both policymakers and the public.

Partnering with NGOs to Drive Impact

Partnerships with credible NGOs offer a practical pathway for translating advocacy into measurable outcomes. Many NGOs possess deep grassroots networks, technical expertise, and on-the-ground experience in areas such as poverty reduction, education, healthcare, and youth empowerment.

By collaborating with these organisations, the Forum can support pilot initiatives, policy research, and community-level interventions that align with its 2026 agenda. Such partnerships enable the Forum to ground its policy recommendations in real-world evidence, strengthening the case for adoption by government institutions.

NGO partnerships also enhance accountability and sustainability.

Working with organisations that already serve vulnerable populations ensures that interventions are people-centred and responsive to local realities. Additionally, joint initiatives can attract development partners and donors, expanding the reach and impact of the Forum’s work.