The 1st Civil Society Summit on Civil Democracy and National Development held on Thursday in Abuja brought together stakeholders to discuss the role of civil society in promoting democracy and national development. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Sen. Yemi Adaramodu, urged civil society organisations (CSOs) to remain steadfast in defending democratic values and promoting national development.
The Senate President praised CSOs for their courage and consistency in defending order and the rule of law, emphasizing that democracy is not just about counting votes, but about conserving virtue.
The Senate President noted that civil society has shown courage and consistency in defending democracy and the rule of law, saying, “Let history record that when Nigeria trembled in the balance, men and women of conscience did not fall silent, you showed up, not in bitterness, but in responsibility.” Sani added that CSOs should engage with government in a constructive manner, being knowledgeable about policies and decisions to drive meaningful advocacy
Mr Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, has called on civil society organizations to shift from mere agitation to constructive engagement. Speaking at the 1st Civil Society Summit on Civil Democracy and National Development, Dare emphasized the critical role civil society plays in ensuring sustainable democracy.
Dare urged civil society to focus on educating citizens about government policies and bridging the gap between the state and its people.
He stressed that civil society must ask itself whether it is helping to build trust and engagement or tearing down the bridges needed to unite the country.
Dare emphasized that civil society organizations are not just watchdogs, but also translators of government policy to the people, carrying an enormous responsibility.
Former Senator Shehu Sani, a veteran human rights activist, urged CSOs to shift their approach from opposition to active and knowledgeable partnership in the governance process, emphasizing the need for facts-driven advocacy.
Senator Sani called on CSOs to build sustainable partnerships with government agencies and development partners to drive meaningful change.
Blessing Akinlosotu, Executive Director of the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN), reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to upholding its ideals, including patriotism, accountability, good governance advocacy, and active citizen participation in national development.
The summit witnessed a massive turnout, with prominent figures and hundreds of Civil Society leaders in attendance
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