The Jigawa State Open Government Partnership (OGP) Non-State Actors have commended the state government for its bold and progressive decision to make deliberation and evidence-based civil society engagement a key requirement in the performance bond signed by all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
This landmark step reflects the administration’s strong commitment to transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.
By institutionalizing civil society engagement, the government is ensuring that policies, plans, and projects remain people-centered, inclusive, and responsive to the voices and evidence provided by civil society organizations (CSOs).
The move aligns with OGP principles and global best practices in participatory governance.
Representatives of the CSO community in Jigawa described the development as a milestone that offers a unique opportunity for stronger, more coordinated, and constructive engagement with both government and citizens.
To fully harness this initiative, CSOs are encouraged to conduct self-assessments to identify their comparative advantages and sectoral strengths, concentrate efforts on specific sectors rather than spreading resources too thin, and prioritize evidence-based advocacy to support effective policy implementation and improved service delivery.
The OGP Secretariat has pledged to facilitate strategic partnerships between MDAs and civil society groups to ensure that the process is effective and sustainable.
Importantly, this collaboration will safeguard the neutrality and independence of CSOs, while fostering mutual trust, constructive dialogue, and joint solutions to benefit citizens across Jigawa State.
The CSO community expressed deep appreciation to the present administration for institutionalizing this inclusive approach, noting that it is expected to deepen democratic accountability, strengthen public trust, and accelerate sustainable development outcomes in the state.
