Stakeholders Seek Synergy With Lawmakers On National Development

Civil society organisations (CSOs) have stressed the need for a strong collaboration with lawmakers to address legal and regulatory barriers to foster their sustainability for national development.

The CSOs stated this at a two-day event organised by the European Union-ACT Programme, the British Council for the Senate Committee on Diaspora and the House of Representatives Committee on Civil Society and Development Matters tagged: “Understanding and Sustaining Collaboration With Civil Society”.

In her address, the country director, British Council, Lucy Pearson, affirmed that the Nigeria legislators undoubtedly play a pivotal role in democratic governance, serving as the voice of the people and the custodians of the rule of law.

She said the workshop is to enhance collaboration between legislators and the civil society in Nigeria with a view to strengthening democratic governance and promoting constructive relationships between the government and the civil society for a more inclusive society.

The chairman, Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs), Dr. Victor Umeh, said the civil society encompasses a diverse array of organisations from grassroots movements to NGOs, advocacy groups, and community-based initiatives, all driven by a shared commitment to addressing social issues and driving positive change.

He said understanding collaboration with CSOs entails recognising the unique strengths and perspectives they possess that enable them to identify local needs and devise context-specific solutions.

The board chairman, CATI, Funke Akinleye, emphasised the importance of sustainable collaboration between the National Assembly and civil society organizations on policy formation that impacts the average citizen.