State Transparency Initiative Graduates 20 Fellows in LG Accountability
From Sani Gazas Chinade, Damaturu
The State Transparency and Accountability Initiative, supported by the Nigeria Youth Future Fund, has graduated 20 fellows trained in civil engagement, leadership, and local government accountability.
This was disclosed by the Chief Executive Officer, Mu’azu Modu, on Monday during the Youth Idea Summit in Damaturu.
The event, themed “Reimagining Youth Civic Participation in Local Governance and the Application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Human Endeavors,” highlighted the importance of youth involvement in governance.
Mu’azu noted that the nine-month fellowship equipped participants with multidimensional training in leadership, social accountability, and community management.
“The fellows were trained in civil engagement, leadership, and scaling up impactful ideas in rural communities. We expect them to return to their communities, implement what they’ve learned, and initiate projects addressing public financial management at the local government level,” he said.
One of the graduates, Zainab Musa Shuaibu, shared her experience during the fellowship, citing the challenges young girls face in her community, including child hawking.
“These girls are exposed to dangers and burdened with responsibilities beyond their years. This fellowship has equipped me with the skills to advocate for children’s rights and their protection,” Zainab said.
She called on the government and relevant authorities to ban child hawking, especially at night, and urged parents to prioritize their children’s education.
