Isiyaku Ahmed
The Team Lead of the Ethics and Good Leadership Awareness Initiative (EGLAI), Mr. Harry Udoh, has called on civil society organizations (CSOs) in Kano State to strengthen collaboration, uphold ethical leadership, and deepen grassroots engagement to drive democratic participation and sustainable development.
Udoh made the call in his goodwill message at the maiden Kano State CSOs Conference held from September 15 to 16, 2025, with the theme “Empowering CSOs in Kano State for a Sustainable Future: Uniting for Active Democratic Participation and Grassroots Development.”
He noted that CSOs play a crucial role as guardians of democracy, defenders of human rights, and catalysts for development, stressing that the conference came at a critical moment when Nigeria faces pressing demands for accountability and citizen participation.
“Civil society organizations stand as vital guardians of democracy, defenders of human rights, and catalysts of sustainable development.
“A conference of this nature could not have come at a more critical moment in our national life, when the call for ethical leadership, citizen participation, and grassroots engagement is louder than ever,” he said.
Udoh explained that EGLAI, with support from the EU CSO-Bridge Project implemented by International IDEA, is dedicated to promoting self-regulation within Nigeria’s civic space by equipping CSOs with tools to strengthen governance, accountability, and credibility.
He commended the Kano State Government for supporting the initiative and praised the organizing committee for its foresight and commitment.
“As we deliberate over the next two days, let us seize the opportunity to refocus our energies, reaffirm our shared values, and birth actionable strategies that position CSOs as indispensable partners in building a sustainable and democratic future,” Udoh urged.
The conference brought together civil society leaders, government representatives, and development partners to chart a common path for enhancing the role of CSOs in Kano State’s democratic and developmental processes.
