By Dare Akogun
Connected Development (CODE), a Non-Governmental Organisation, has embarked on a mission to deepen accountability and sustainability in governance in Kwara State through its “Project Trust” initiative.
During the inauguration of the project in Ilorin on Thursday, CODE’s Community Engagement Officer, Barr. Ifunnaya Okeke, revealed that “Project Trust” aims to rebuild trust in the government by institutionalizing accountability systems across the six geopolitical zones of the country.
Okeke explained that the project’s objectives include promoting resilience and sustainability in governance, fostering an accountability system between citizens and the government, and ensuring the implementation of the Discrimination Against Persons With Disabilities (Prohibition) Act, 2018.
She clarified that the project is not intended to witch-hunt the government but rather seeks accountability and effective service delivery. It will be implemented in Kwara, alongside Jigawa, Osun, Bayelsa, Yobe, and Anambra states.
“The initiative will utilize a Community of Practice (CoP) consisting of 20 members from various sectors, including Civil Society Organisations, Community Based Organisations, media, and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs).
“These members will replicate the success achieved in Kaduna state three years ago,” she said.
In his remarks, Alhaji Moshood Suleiman, Director of Legislative Matters at the Kwara House of Assembly, assured that the government would provide a conducive environment for the successful implementation of the project.
He pledged the Assembly’s commitment to legislation aimed at promoting good governance.
Similarly, Mr Abubakar Abdullahi, Chairman of the Kwara Fiscal Responsibility Commission, expressed the commission’s readiness to support CODE in creating awareness about government projects and governance.
The inauguration ceremony also featured the swearing-in of CoP members as a sign of their commitment to the project.
Representatives from various stakeholders, including the Ministry of Water Resources, Planning, Education, as well as CSOs and CBOs, were present at the event.
