The year 2024 marked a turning point in bridging the gap between governance and grassroots communities in the North Central Region. Guided by the vision of inclusion, collaboration, and sustainable development, my office initiated transformative programs to address critical challenges, amplify citizens’ voices, and foster community-driven solutions. From the establishment of the Citizens’ Assembly to impactful initiatives in education, health, and infrastructure, our efforts were rooted in the principles of accountability, innovation, and shared responsibility.
During the Listening Tour (an initiative designed to bridge the gap between government and citizens, especially at the grassroots level), we organized eight town hall meetings, engaging with over 6,000 participants. These events were attended by two deputy governors, speakers and members of state houses of assembly, more than 40 commissioners and advisers to governors, representatives from the police, military, and other security agencies, over 10 first-class traditional rulers, more than 50 academics, over 100 community-based organizations, associations, and informal networks, as well as other key stakeholders
Volunteers of our citizen assembly have gone beyond identifying challenges they have driven meaningful engagements. For instance, in Niger State, they contributed to discussions on the 2025 budget during a grassroots consultation organized by the Ministry of Budget Planning. Meanwhile, creative initiatives like “Salon Gist” and “Barber’s Shop Talk” have transformed informal spaces into hubs for governance dialogue, ensuring even the most marginalized voices are heard.
This initiative is not just about solving problems but also about fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and inclusion. Reports from our volunteers have led to swift action by Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), ensuring that government policies and programs are aligned with the real needs of our people. Such outcomes are proof that the gap between government and citizens can be bridged through strategic engagement.
With support from MacArthur Foundation and Agora Policy, we implemented The Policy Support, Deepening, and Engagement (PSDE) project from October to December 2024. The project seeks to create structured platforms for ongoing dialogue between local communities and the Federal Government, ensuring transparency and responsiveness in governance
The outcomes of these activities have been profound. By fostering open and participatory discussions, we have strengthened community engagement and enhanced the responsiveness of government institutions to local needs. Furthermore, the sessions have empowered participants with the knowledge and tools to actively contribute to decision-making processes, thereby building local capacity. The Citizens’ Assembly also served as a crucial feedback mechanism for policy development, providing government stakeholders with valuable insights into the priorities and concerns of the communities they serve. This two-way communication has not only increased transparency but also laid the groundwork for more effective and sustainable governance.
Overall, the project has made significant strides in bridging the gap between the government and the people, promoting trust, collaboration, and shared accountability in the pursuit of inclusive development.
As we reflect on the accomplishments of 2024, it is clear that collaboration is the cornerstone of meaningful change. I extend my deepest gratitude to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for his exemplary leadership and the Renewed Hope Agenda, which provided the framework for these impactful initiatives.
~ Hon. Abiodun Essiet
SSAP on Community Engagement, North Central
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