CSOs co-architects of meaningful democracy, says Kano govt

From Desmond Mgboh, Kano

Kano State Government has declared that civil society organisations are co-architects of democracy, whose presence at the grassroots has led to positive impacts of governance on the people of the state.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the two-day Kano civil society organisation’s conference in the state, Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Ibrahim  Abdullahi Waiya explained that the collective future lies not in government alone or the civil society  groups in isolation but in the ability of the two to unite.

“When citizens, civil society and the state act as partners rather than rivals, democracy ceases to be a slogan and it becomes a reality with positive impacts on the lives of the citizens.”

He insisted that the challenge before the participants is to transform the energy of the gathering into enduring networks, resilient institutions and collaborative frameworks that would outlive the present moment  and shape the destiny of generations yet unborn.

“Kano’s decision to convene this first CSOs conference is, therefore, historical. It signals a new chapter where inclusivity, transparency and grassroots-driven development are no longer aspirations but commitments,” he stated.

Deputy Governor, Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, described the conference as a practical demonstration of partnership among government, civil society, academia and development actors.

He noted that the civil society organisations in the state have been resilient in areas of education, health care, gender justice, climate action, anti-corruption advocacy and conflict resolutions.

He urged them to use the opportunity to exchange ideas, strengthen partnership and co-create solutions to the challenges of the society.