President Tinubu Touts CSOs' Role as Crucial for National Progress

Nigeria's President, Bola Tinubu, has described civil society organisations (CSOs) as vital "co-architects of national development," calling upon them to enhance their partnership with the government to advance transparency, accountability, and sustainable progress throughout the nation. This declaration was made by President Tinubu, through his representative, Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, during the inauguration of the National Civil Society Organisations Summit 2026 and the Southern Civil Society Organisations Summit. The event took place on Wednesday at the Oriental Hotel in Lagos.

Addressing attendees on the summit's central theme, "Nigeria First," the President underscored that CSOs' function now extends beyond mere activism. He emphasized that their contributions to the country's advancement epitomize "patriotism in action." Tinubu highlighted the crucial responsibilities CSOs fulfilled during national emergencies, citing the COVID-19 pandemic as an example. He also noted their indispensable partnership in tackling ongoing issues like flooding, climate change, and various public health crises.

"Your work is not restricted to activism against the government; it is patriotism in action for Nigeria," President Tinubu affirmed. He clarified that the "Nigeria First" agenda signifies a commitment to prioritizing the welfare and interests of Nigerian citizens in all policies, partnerships, and public investments, rather than advocating for isolationist approaches.

The President noted that the summit's objectives were in harmony with his administration's "Renewed Hope Agenda" and its eight key focus areas. These priorities encompass economic reform, national security, food security, infrastructure development, education, healthcare, industrialization, digitalization, and enhanced governance. Tinubu further stated that civil society organizations are crucial collaborators in reaching these goals. He encouraged them to intensify their efforts through activities such as budget tracking, community-level monitoring, data exchange, fostering social accountability, and conducting independent evaluations of government initiatives.

In related news, President Tinubu has an ongoing request for the Senate to confirm his nominee for the AMCON chairman position. Separately, the Sokoto State Assembly has summoned various GSM and internet service providers concerning inadequate network services. Furthermore, regarding the PFIPC scandal, the ADC party has rejected the ICPC's investigation, instead demanding a judicial panel.

The President pinpointed food security, poverty alleviation, enhanced governance, and human capital development as critical sectors necessitating stronger collaboration between state institutions and CSOs. Concerning food security, he advocated for the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural methods, the safeguarding of wetlands, and the rejuvenation of mangrove ecosystems. This appeal was made especially pertinent given predictions of extended rainfall and heightened flood hazards in Lagos and other southern regions.

Tinubu also drew attention to the significant potential of the blue economy, renewable energy, and environmental services to generate employment and broaden prospects for Nigerian youth and women. According to Tinubu, a young Nigerian involved in fields such as renewable energy, waste management, aquaculture, or climate services is not merely securing an income but actively contributing to the nation's future progress. He further underscored the necessity for more robust collaborations in tackling health issues linked to climate change, observing that incidents of flooding and severe weather patterns have escalated the prevalence of diseases like cholera and malaria.

The President reiterated that his administration is open to constructive critique from civil society organizations, emphasizing that accountability is fundamental for effective governance and the enhancement of public service delivery. Nevertheless, he implored CSOs to adopt self-regulatory measures and establish more robust internal governance frameworks to deter unethical conduct and safeguard the sector's integrity. Tinubu concluded by reaffirming his dedication to structured interactions with civil society organizations nationwide, voicing optimism that the summit's outcomes would offer tangible solutions to Nigeria's developmental hurdles.