News
FG, OGP Stakeholders Deepen Collaboration to Advance Good Governance, Youth Empowerment, and Accountability
Joel Ajayi
The Honourable Minister of Youth Development and Co-Chair of the Global Open Government Partnership (OGP), Comrade Ayodele Olawande, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing collaboration between government institutions and civil society through the OGP platform.
Speaking at a high-level engagement with civil society actors and representatives of the OGP Secretariat, the Honourable Minister emphasized the critical role of non-state actors in promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.
“The OGP platform has consistently proven to be an effective mechanism for sustained engagement between Ministries and non-state actors,” said Comrade Olawande. “I must commend the OGP Secretariat and all stakeholders, both present and absent, whose dedication has been instrumental in advancing this important agenda.”
Comrade Olawande also recognized the invaluable guidance of elder statesmen and civil society leaders, describing their mentorship as foundational to the Ministry’s progress.
“Without their mentorship and encouragement, we wouldn’t be where we are today. Their values, wisdom, and steadfast support continue to inspire us. Nigeria’s problem is not a lack of accountability; it is the gradual erosion of our shared values. Too many people are focused on distractions instead of addressing the real issues. I cannot be anyone else; I can only be myself. But I strive to embody the values and integrity passed down to us.”
The Minister stressed the importance of instilling strong ethical values in Nigerian youth, noting that value-driven leadership and civic responsibility are essential to national development.
“We must reawaken our young people to the importance of ethics, integrity, and national service. A society that neglects its core values is a society at risk.”
In his remarks, Mr. Soji Apampa, the incoming Co-Chair of the Global OGP, expressed appreciation for the Minister’s continued leadership and commitment.
“Thank you, Honourable Minister, for receiving us. We are optimistic about deepening discussions around the future of the OGP in Nigeria, particularly on leadership transition and sustainability. These issues remain critical to the success of the OGP initiative. We also appreciate your commitment to finalizing the National Action Plan and ensuring it receives presidential approval.”
Also present was Mr. Aiden Eyakuze, Chief Executive Officer of the Global OGP, who underscored the importance of inclusive governance and ongoing engagement between Ministries and civil society.
“The OGP platform has proven to be an effective and trusted space for dialogue and collaboration. The contribution of the Secretariat has been invaluable, and without their support, the progress we celebrate today would not have been possible. We must also recognize the wisdom of our elders and the enduring commitment of our civil society partners.”
Mr. Eyakuze further highlighted the urgent need for value reorientation among Nigerian youth, calling for a return to authenticity and purpose.
“What Nigeria faces today is not so much a lack of accountability mechanisms, but a steady decline in core values. The distractions are many, and as a nation, we must refocus on what truly matters. I cannot become someone else; I can only be true to myself and uphold the principles I believe in. The inspiration and support we’ve received have made us stronger, and we are grateful.”
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from both parties to promote open governance, strengthen youth participation, and advance inclusive national development rooted in transparency, accountability, and shared values.
News
Nigeria at 66: ‘We Must Not Lose Faith in Nigeria’ — FCC Boss Omidiran
Joel Ajayi
The Executive Chairman of the Federal Character Commission (FCC), Honorable Hulayat Motunrayo Omidiran, has called on Nigerians to use the occasion of the nation’s 66th Independence Anniversary to renew their faith in Nigeria, strengthen national unity and recommit themselves to building a more inclusive and prosperous country.
In her 66th Independence Day message, Hon. Omidiran described October 1 as more than a celebration of freedom, saying the anniversary provides an opportunity for Nigerians to reflect on the country’s journey, acknowledge its progress and challenges, and renew the collective determination to build a nation where every citizen has a sense of belonging.
According to the FCC Executive Chairman, the Federal Character Principle remains particularly important to the quest for national cohesion because equitable representation promotes a sense of ownership and confidence in the Nigerian project.
“Nigeria is a nation of great diversity and
enormous potential. Our responsibility is to ensure that this diversity becomes a bridge that connects us rather than a barrier that separates us. Every Nigerian deserves to feel that he or she belongs to this country and has a role to play in its development,” Omidiran said.
The FCC boss called on government institutions at all levels to remain committed to fairness, equity, accountability and inclusive governance, while urging citizens to support efforts aimed at strengthening national institutions and promoting peaceful coexistence.
“We must not lose faith in Nigeria. The challenges before us are real, but so are the opportunities and the enormous human and natural resources available to us. Every citizen has a responsibility to contribute his or her own quota to building the Nigeria we desire,” she stated.
The FCC Executive Chairman also urged young Nigerians to remain committed to acquiring knowledge and skills, entrepreneurship, innovation, sports and other productive ventures, describing the youth as critical stakeholders in the country’s future.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us remember that the Nigeria we want cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all of us – leaders and citizens, young and old, from every part of the federation. Together, we can build a Nigeria where justice, fairness, opportunity and peace are available to all,” she said.
Omidiran reaffirmed the FCC’s commitment to the effective discharge of its constitutional mandate and to supporting efforts that promote equitable representation and inclusive national development across the federation.
The former lawmaker wished Nigerians at home and abroad a peaceful and memorable 66th Independence Anniversary, praying for continued peace, stability, prosperity and progress for the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
“Our differences should never be greater than our common identity as Nigerians. Let us continue to choose unity over division, service over self-interest and hope over despair. The Nigeria of our dreams is possible if we all play our part,” Omidiran said.
“On behalf of the Federal Character Commission, I congratulate all Nigerians on this 66th Independence Anniversary. May this occasion renew our patriotism, strengthen our unity and inspire us to work together for a stronger, more equitable and prosperous Nigeria. May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” she added.
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