Immediate past President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator David Mark has called on Nigerian Scholars and Research Institutes to collaborate with government to fashion out a workable blue print to overcome the present economic down turn.
He is of the view that the present economic quagmire is a challenge that must of a necessity bring out the best in our research institutes and professionals on the way forward.
The former Senate President in a new year message to Nigerians stressed that there is no better time than now for the nation to face the stark reality and declare an emergency on how to diversify the economy.
To actualize the goal, he requested all states of the Federation in a statement by his media aide,Paul Mumeh to join in the search for solution by developing mineral resources in which it has comparative advantage Pointing out that ” I know as a matter of fact that every state of the federation has one or two untapped mineral resources to develop and grow the economy”.
Senator Mark believes that the economic challenges are surmountable if all hands are on deck instead of hoping against hope on the price of crude oil adding ” we cannot continue to sulk on the failure of yesterday and the mistake of today , but the past should serve as a useful lesson for better tomorrow “.
The former Senate President craves for a society of equal opportunities for all citizens in which every one is free to pursue his or her legitimate ambitions in any part of the country without fear of intimidation or molestation.
He also reiterated the need for all citizens to be security conscious at all times in order to tackle the menace of insecurity in the land. He therefore advocated for community policing that would involve the natives in a manner that makes every one his brother’s keeper.
By so doing , he expressed optimism that criminal elements would be routed out ” because every member of the community know each other and can easily identify a stranger or infiltrator “.
He urged the government at all levels to make people the centre point of their policies and programs as a direct response to needs, wishes and aspirations of the citizens.
Senator Mark wishes Nigeria and Nigerians a peaceful, United and prosperous new year. [MARK]
Support InfoStride News' Credible Journalism: Only credible journalism can guarantee a fair, accountable and transparent society, including democracy and government. It involves a lot of efforts and money. We need your support. Click here to Donate