National dialogue not a distraction- Modibbo

Ahead of the convocation of the National Conference by President Goodluck Jonathan, former Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Administration, FCTA, Dr. Aliyu Modibbo Umar said yesterday that the dialogue will not be a distraction, just as he urged Nigerians to take advantage of the National Dialogue Committee  to strengthen the unity of the country.

Speaking yesterday while presenting the report of his committee to the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, Modibbo said, 'It is always healthy to discuss and dialogue with one another, I don't see anything distractive in any way in this exercise. I think that people that talk always find a solution. The tragedy will be, the period or the time we don't talk to each other as a people then we have a problem but there is a way out with dialogue'.

The former minister who noted that the  report was detailed with far-reaching recommendations to solidify the concrete achievements so far recorded in the Federal Capital Territory and mop up funds for its accelerated development, however pleaded with individuals, group of persons or corporate organizations who feel strong about something to submit an independent memorandum to the National Advisory Committee that was due for Abuja next Wednesday, adding that  the exercise was conducted without rancour.

Responding, the FCT Minister, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed who appreciated the passion exhibited by members of the committee, said that Nigeria is a  miniature Nigeria and that the rights of all Nigerians will continue to be protected through justice and equity; adding that residents' rights and privileges will continue to be guaranteed.

The Minister announced that the FCT Administration would be receiving the Advisory Committee on National Dialogue in Abuja on Wednesday at the Ladi Kwali Hall, Abuja Sheraton Hotel and Towers.