Federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepen collaboration between state institutions and the civil society through the Open Government Partnership, OGP, platform.
Minister of Youth Development and the Co-Chair of OGP, Mr Ayodele Olawande, made the pledge during a high-level engagement with civil society actors and representatives of OGP Secretariat in Abuja.
This was contained in a statement signed by the Director of Information and Public Relations at the ministry, Mrs Omolara Esan.
Olawande emphasised the critical role of non-state actors in advancing transparency, accountability and citizen participation in governance.
He commended the OGP Secretariat and stakeholders for their dedication to build an open and responsive government.
“The OGP platform has consistently proven to be an effective mechanism for sustained engagement between ministries and non-state actors,” he said.
The minister also acknowledged the mentorship of elder statesmen and civil society leaders, describing their guidance as foundational to the progress made in youth development and governance reforms.
“Nigeria’s problem is not lack of accountability structures, but a gradual erosion of shared values,” Olawande noted.
He called for a revival of ethical leadership and value-driven service among youths.
In his remarks, the incoming Co-Chair of Global OGP, Mr Soji Apampa, lauded Olawande’s leadership and commitment to finalising Nigeria’s National Action Plan and securing presidential assent.
“Discussions on leadership transition and sustainability are crucial for the future of OGP in Nigeria,” he said.
The Chief Executive Officer, OGP, Mr Aiden Eyakuze, described the platform as a trusted space for dialogue and collaboration, crediting the Nigerian secretariat and civil society for sustained progress.
He emphasised the call for value reorientation among youths, stating that “What Nigeria faces today is not the absence of accountability mechanisms, but the steady decline of core national values.”
The meeting ended with renewed commitment to promote open governance, increase youth participation and drive inclusive development grounded in transparency, civic responsibility and ethical leadership. NAN
