The Secretariat of the ongoing National Conference on Thursday denied reports that the Federal Government had extended the duration of the confab by six weeks.
A statement by its Assistant Secretary (Media and Communications), Mr. Akpandem James, described the information as “not only misleading but untrue in fact.”
He said, “If there is need for an extension, a request for that would emanate from the Conference Secretariat to the Presidency, and as of the time of issuing this statement, no such request has been made to the Presidency.
The Secretariat is not aware of any formal extension of the conference duration by the Federal Government, as reported in some sections of the media.
“As part of its engagement with delegates, the leadership of the Conference had a meeting with Chairmen, Co-Chairmen and Deputy Chairmen of the 20 standing committees to keep abreast with the activities of the committees and also find out if there are challenges that the intervention of the secretariat would be required.
“During the meeting, most of the committee chairmen complained of the shortness of time for committee work, citing the heavy workload and relevant assistance they would require from external sources to do a thorough job. It was then agreed that one extra week should be added to enable the committees to tidy up their activities and present meaningful reports.”
James however stated that since the World Economic Forum would be taking place next week and because some delegates and facilities being used for the confab would be involved and engaged, “The week following between Monday May 12 and Thursday May 15 was consequently approved for the extension, for conclusion of committee work.”
He added, “As a follow-up to that agreement, the Conference Secretary, Dr. (Mrs.) Valerie-Janette Azinge, formally communicated the decision to all Committee chairmen.
He said, “The Secretariat lacks the power to extend the Conference duration and has made that position very clear at every point the issue is raised.”
Source: Punch
