Governor Simon Bako Lalong of Plateau State has called on Nigerians  to always engage in programmes and activities that unite the country, promote peace and add value to lives.

Lalong made this statement in a speech he delivered as the guest of honour at this year’s Zumunta International Convention, specifically organised to address the challenges of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the North held in Atlanta, USA.

Lalong said: “Creating a value for the unity of Nigerian Northerners in Diaspora with this convention and other programmes of common interest is no doubt a clarion call to all stakeholders back home, that we have a valuable asset that we must nurture and continue to add value to for the benefit of generations yet unborn.

“Northern Nigeria with her land mass, population, natural endowment, diverse ethnic groups and human resources, is blessed beyond the issues of religious and ethnic difference that have been manipulated and exploited by conflict merchants garbed in political and religious apparels.

“Our shared values and strength in diversity as Northerners have accounted for the leadership we have provided and are still providing for our people. Further to this is the massive contribution of the region and her citizens to the socio-economic development of the nation. I must therefore be quick to commend all of you who are committed members of Zumunta Association for showcasing with your continuous fellowship and brotherhood, that Northern Nigeria remains an indivisible region of people committed to pursuing their common destiny in Unison, in our country Nigeria.

“This Year’s symposium on Internally Displaced Persons ( IDPs) with particular reference to Northern Nigeria, brings to heart a global concern demanding individual and collective action to nip in the bud. As we think globally we must act locally to address the issue at hand, so we can rank within global reckoning as people worthy of recognition and commendation.

“The growing number of people who are forced to flee their Native home and land, to seek refuge in other safe havens within our country is alarming. While it is a matter of humanitarian concern to have refugees cross the borders of our country into Northern Nigeria on account of natural disasters and violent conflicts, it is senseless to have a situation where the growing numbers of Internally Displaced Persons in Northern Nigeria is on account of Communal Ethnic clashes and attacks by religious extremists” Lalong said.

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Lalong seeks unity, peace