Moves to deepen democratic engagement between region, FG
A South-West socio-cultural group, Afenifere, in collaboration with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission, has planned to hold a two-day regional stakeholders’ dialogue in Akure, the Ondo State capital, to deepen democratic engagement between the South-West and the Federal Government.
The summit, scheduled for October 9 and 10, themed “Strengthening Democracy through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future,” is expected to attract over 800 participants, including governors, ministers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, academics, private sector players, and grassroots representatives.
According to DAWN’s Spokesman, Segun Balogun, the Commission will provide technical support to Afenifere in delivering one of the most significant citizen–government engagement platforms in recent years. Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa will host the event, with co-hosting by other South-West governors.
Also, Chairman of the Summit Steering Committee, Dr Akin Onigbinde (SAN), described the initiative as “a new chapter in democratic engagement for the South-West.” He noted that the framework would amplify the voices of over 40 million residents in governance decisions.
Similarly, DAWN Director-General, Dr Seye Oyeleye, said the summit would prioritise evidence-based presentations to foster accountability and transparency.
“This is an opportunity for citizens to receive first-hand information on government policies and demand accountability through facts and data,” he stated.
In his remark, Programme Coordinator, Prof. Anthony Kila, disclosed that the summit would feature six thematic sessions on fiscal reforms and national planning, economic development and job creation, social services, infrastructure, human capital development, and security and governance, adding that participants should expect “direct answers to their questions” from government representatives.
Meanwhile, Afenifere and DAWN said the summit would provide a structured platform for dialogue to shape policy directions and strengthen democratic governance in the region.
