By Zika Bobby
President Bola Tinubu has mandated his aides to embark on community engagement directly with the populace.
This development became inevitable following widespread clamour by Nigerians for robust public communication from the government.
A statement by Seun Ajayi, Head of Media, Presidential Community Engagement Office, said following the President’s recent national broadcast, a wave of discussions has emerged on the need for the administration to engage with the members of the public through its appointees on policies, projects, and programmes.
She said: “The whole idea is to strengthen the relationship between the government and its citizens and the newly established Presidential Community Engagement Office, a crucial bridge between the Federal Government and local communities in Nigeria.
“As part of this effort, the office has introduced the Citizens’ Assembly, a nationwide programme designed to ensure that the voices of the people are heard and considered in national decision-making processes. This initiative aims to create a more inclusive and responsive government by facilitating meaningful engagements with the public.
“Dedicated to fostering collaboration, amplifying local voices, and promoting socio-economic development, the office plays a pivotal role in advancing the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s Administration.
“The six Senior Special Assistants (SSAs) to the President on Community Engagement; Moremi Ojudu (South-West), Chioma Nweze (South-East), Gift Johnbull (South-South), Abiodun Essiet (North-Central), Abdullahi Tanko Yakasai (North-West), Abdulhamid Yahaya Abba (North-East), have been tasked with returning to their communities in the geo-political zones to engage directly with citizens. Their mission is to ensure that the President’s policies and programmes are well understood and that public feedback is actively incorporated into the government’s agenda.”