The Good Governance Initiative (GGI) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening democratic values.
This was made known during its statewide capacity-building seminar for local government coordinators, themed “Strengthening Democracy at the Grassroot in Nigeria: A Decisive Factor for the Sustenance of Democracy in Africa.” In his welcome address, the GGI chairman Hon. Bayonle Okeyode highlighted GGI’s role as a dedicated non-governmental organization that prioritizes good governance, citizen welfare, and government accountability while serving as a crucial bridge between leaders and the people they govern.
He emphasized that GGI continues to advocate for citizen-driven democracy, ensuring communities understand their power and responsibility in shaping leadership across Nigeria.
Hon. Okeyode further revealed that GGI currently has over 10,000 active members, all eligible voters equipped with their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), and strategically positioned across numerous local government areas. He encouraged participants to return to their communities as catalysts for grassroots engagement, transparency, and the strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic culture.
The seminar featured a roster of distinguished speakers and special guests who contributed significantly to the discussions. Dr. Najeemdeen Adunola (Ph.D) delivered an enlightening lecture on “Good Governance & Citizen Participation: Strategies for Inclusive and Accountable Governance,” highlighting transparency, accountability, rule of law, and effective service delivery as the pillars of good governance.
He emphasized that citizens are central to democratic processes and outlined strategies for strengthening local institutions, promoting civic education, enhancing transparency, and fostering collaboration between government, civil society, and community groups.
Dr. Emokhare Paul (Ph.D) presented on ethics, discipline, and organizational loyalty, underscoring their importance in building strong and effective institutions. He explained that ethical conduct ensures integrity, discipline drives professionalism and productivity, and loyalty fosters commitment and cohesion—essential ingredients for sustainable organizational success.
Resident Electoral Commissioner represented by Alhaji Taliatu Adeagbo, the HOD Voter Education Publicity Gender and Civil Society Liaison provided an in-depth discussion on citizen responsibilities in democracy, stressing that active participation in elections, vigilance against malpractice, and holding leaders accountable are vital to safeguarding democracy. Examples of nonchalant attitudes, such as ignoring electoral irregularities, refusing to vote, or failing to monitor leadership performance, were cited as key reasons why unethical practices persist.
The seminar also welcomed several notable special guests, including Hon. Abideen Adeaga, Chairman of OYCSDA, DSP Gideon Olagbaye from Alabebe Police station, representing the Commissioner of Police, Hon. Taliat Oribayo Okeyode, former Commissioner, Dr. Paul Antony Emokhare, Dr. Tiamiyu Babatunde, and
Mr Jochen Schindelarz Vice Consul, Consulate General of the Federal Republic of Germany who highlighted the initiative’s alignment with the Consulate’s values and commitment to supporting projects that foster meaningful community engagement and sustainable development. Members from all 33 local government areas were present, ensuring broad representation and input from across the state.
In his remarks, Mr Jochen Schindelarz emphasized the importance of supporting initiatives that promote collaboration, innovation, and tangible community benefits, reflecting the German Consulate’s commitment to local and international development goals.
Collectively, the seminar reinforced the shared vision of GGI and its partners to deepen democracy, enhance citizen engagement, and build transparent, accountable, and participatory governance across Nigeria.
