Government Calls for Civil Society Support to Tackle Economic and Humanitarian Issues

The Presidency has called on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) to work more closely with the government. They say that teamwork is important for solving the country’s serious economic and humanitarian problems.

Amina Kabir, the Special Assistant to the President on Delivery and Coordination, spoke at the event to welcome Sikiru Owonikoko as the new Governor of Rotary International District 9127 in Abuja on Saturday. She said the government cannot handle these challenges alone. Ms Kabir urged service organisations to move away from just ceremonial activities and focus on actions that produce real and lasting results.

“When government is stretched, civil society must be strong. When communities are hurting, service organisations must be present,” she said. Ms Kabir also encouraged everyone to think about long-term impact instead of short-term publicity. She added, “The real question is what has changed. Lasting impact is not noise; it is legacy. It is what remains after the cameras leave.”

Former Kano State Governor, Abdullahi Ganduje, shared a historical view. He praised Rotary International for its big role in public health. He pointed to the polio eradication campaign as proof that state and civil society can work well together. He noted how strong enforcement and teamwork helped Nigeria move away from being a polio-endemic country. He said that the current economic and security issues also need this kind of united effort.

In his acceptance speech, Mr Owonikoko shared his plan for the district. He wants to focus on growing membership and using digital tools to make operations better. He also promised that the organisation would continue its work in humanitarian areas like peace-building, disease prevention, and maternal health.