The Ikono local government area of Akwa Ibom State has entered into a collaborative agreement with a Civil Society Organisation, Policy Alert, to enhance transparency, inclusion, and accessibility in its administration. This partnership aims to promote citizen engagement and improve public service delivery at the grassroots level.
According to Otobong Essien, the executive chairman of Ikono LGA, her administration is committed to championing inclusion, accountability, and accessibility. She expressed her readiness to partner with organisations that can bring growth and value to the community. Essien pledged to hold quarterly public briefings to provide updates on budget performance, key projects, and service delivery outcomes, which will serve as a platform for open dialogue between citizens, civil society, and community stakeholders.
The project, led by Idorenyin Eyo, will focus on training 90 youths from 10 local government areas across Akwa Ibom’s three senatorial districts. The exercise is designed to empower citizens, particularly youth, women, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised groups, to engage in governance processes and influence development decisions. Inclusive platforms for dialogue, such as advocacy visits, community town hall meetings, and participatory budgeting forums, will be established to bridge the gap between citizens and local authorities.
The initiative prioritises gender-sensitive programming to ensure equitable participation and representation. By promoting citizen engagement and inclusive governance, the partnership between Ikono LGA and Policy Alert seeks to improve public service delivery and bring value to the community. This collaboration demonstrates the council’s commitment to development-friendly governance and its willingness to work with organisations that share its vision for a more inclusive and accountable administration.
The partnership is significant, as it highlights the importance of collaboration between local government and civil society in promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement. As the project progresses, it is expected to have a positive impact on the community, particularly in terms of improved public service delivery and more inclusive governance. The quarterly public briefings and inclusive platforms for dialogue will provide opportunities for citizens to engage with the local government and contribute to decision-making processes.
