Hello Enabler,

We're excited to share with you the impactful activities and initiatives that your support has made possible in July. Your continued commitment to our cause is driving positive change across Nigeria, and we're grateful for your partnership in this journey.

Enjoy the read!😊

#EdoAndOndoDecides2024 RSVP Campaign

We're gearing up for the upcoming gubernatorial elections in Edo (September 21) and Ondo (November 16) states. Our initiatives include:

1. Promoting PVC collection and voter education.

2. Engaging religious leaders with our Toolkits.

3. Planning to set up OOTC elections call centers in both states.

The Special Interactive Meeting in Edo state

We participated in a hybrid event titled "Gender Agender: Promoting Inclusion and Women's Participation in Edo State," hosted by the League of Women Voters in Nigeria - Edo State Chapter. This important gathering provided a platform for gubernatorial candidates to address women's concerns and present their plans for empowerment.

Since 2012, we have formed partnerships to promote inclusive governance and public accountability in Nigeria through civic education and informed advocacy.

The Regional Conference on Countering Information Manipulation in West Africa

We joined delegates from across West Africa to discuss approaches to disinformation and the role of AI in its propagation, reinforcing our commitment to combating misinformation. The three day event organized by the Centre for Democracy & Development (CDD), National Democratic Institute (NDI) and the Canadian Government brought together delegates from NGOs, civic tech innovators, fact-checkers, and media professionals.

OOTC Radio

Despite technical maintenance at our partner station, we aired an engaging episode on "People Power in Action: Kenyan Protests and Lessons for Nigeria."

Sparkling FM is back on air and we are excited to continue delivering impactful content.

Research and Infographics

In collaboration with SBM Intelligence, we released our quarterly report on media-reported killings, providing crucial data and insights on citizen safety in Nigeria.

Our latest report not only tracks the data but also offers insightful infographics and research to better understand the impact of these incidents on Nigerian society. We aim to raise awareness and drive discussions on improving safety and security measures for all citizens.

Thursday Talks 

In light of the Supreme Court’s landmark reaffirmation of financial autonomy for local governments in Nigeria, July’s #ThursdayTalks centred on the theme: “What Does LGA Autonomy Look Like?” This hybrid event showcased a presentation and panel discussions with a selection of youth activists and thought leaders on the implications of the Supreme Court’s ruling on Nigeria’s federal structure, emphasising accountability and transparency, as well as the role of citizens in this new framework.

The panelist were drawn from civil society and politics, and included Liborous Oshoma, a constitutional lawyer; Mark Amaza, Senior Media Officer with Yiaga Africa; Victoria Oladipo, Founder of Learn Politics; and Hon. Obafemi Onakoya, former Transition Committee Chairman of Odogbolu Local Government Area in Ogun State.

Listen to the recap here.

WAYS TV Show

In July, our Office of The Citizen (OOTC) segment on the WAYS Show covered several important topics. We started by examining the NIMC data breach , featuring insights from Gbenga Sesan of Paradigm Initiative on its implications for data security and privacy in Nigeria. Our discussions then turned to the recent Supreme Court ruling that affirmed financial autonomy for local governments. Additionally, we commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day, reflecting on his enduring legacy and its ongoing impact on our pursuit of social justice and civic engagement.

Join us every Monday for thought-provoking insights and in-depth discussions on the critical issues shaping our nation.

#myLGA Project

In the month of July, we commenced our #myLGA radio program in Abia State where we discussed the role of the local government and how citizens can engage with their local officials. Our project team in Abia went further to amplify key issues within the project communities calling on the relevant government authorities to pay attention to solving them.

Still in July, we had our first virtual onboarding for the HelpDesk Officers we would be working with in Nasarawa state and our state partner, Connecting Villages Initiative, has been doing a phenomenal job in mobilising the Toto, Laffia, Keffi, Akwanga, Eggon and Obi LGAs. As we move towards our town hall meetings in all 6 project states (Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Nasarawa, Ondo and Yobe), we are excited for the many successes and opportunities we have faced in this project as it winds up.

For #myLGA, August promises to be very engaging and interesting!

Critical Update: #EndBadGovernance Protest

Today is Day 9 of the 10-day #EndBadGovernance protest, a significant movement that demands our full attention and support. In response to President Tinubu's address on the protests, 12 leading Civil Society Organizations, including ours, have come together to provide a critical analysis.

Unfortunately, the President's address fell short of addressing the protesters' core demands. After consulting with stakeholders, we have distilled the demands into a clear and actionable framework for peaceful engagement with the government.

Read our full press statement to learn more.

Support Our Work

And there you have it Enabler, you're now up to speed on our key activities and, most importantly, the impacts we've made in July.

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Till next time!