The National Orientation Agency ( NOA) has tasked the public officials on Participatory Democracy in order to bridge the gap between the leaders and their respective followers.
The Director General, Malam Isa Onilu, gave this charge during a programme titled “Citizens’ Conversation with Elected Public Officials in Oyo State,” held in Ibadan on Friday.
Represented by the Director of Political, Civic Education, Ethics, and Value, Mrs. Adeola Adelaja, the DG emphasized the importance of constructive engagement between citizens and their leaders.
He stated, “We must all ensure that we hold our elected leaders to their campaign promises, ensuring that they address the genuine needs and aspirations of the people.”
The DG also took the opportunity to elaborate on various policies of President Tinubu’s administration, such as the Student Loan Scheme, Nigeria Youth Investment Fund, reallocation of subsidy funds for critical investments, CNG initiatives, Siemens Power Project, Conditional Cash Transfers, and support for nano businesses, among others.
He encouraged people in the South to access the Student Loans and other programs under the Renewed Hope Agenda, as their counterparts in the Northern states have done, so that “every citizen can enjoy improved economic opportunities, robust public services, and a higher quality of life.”
The DG also commended Governor Seyi Makinde for implementing programs that address community needs in Oyo, particularly the Sustainable Action for Economic Recovery (SAFER) initiative, which has fostered welfare support, economic and business support, transport initiatives, agricultural empowerment, and youth development to elevate public welfare.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Oluwatobi Oluwaseun Onifade (aka Onala), highlighted the importance of local governments as the closest tier of government to the people. He noted that local governments play a crucial role in implementing impactful interventions, policies, and initiatives.
The Chairman outlined several intervention projects carried out by the local government in line with Governor Oluseyi Makinde’s directives, whom he described as “passionate about development in every part of the state.”
He listed achievements in health service delivery and security, which include the commissioning of a building for the NSCDC, as well as improvements in agriculture, road grading and maintenance, Wi-Fi installation, and other developmental projects.
The programme was attended by relevant stakeholders, including the State Director of NOA, Dr. Olukemi Afolayan.
