The Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Razak Daddah, has emphasised the importance of collaboration between the Government and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) as a vital catalyst in the pursuit of social equity and sustainable development in society.
Hon. Daddah made this statement at the 13th Annual Charity Lecture and Appreciation Colloquium, organised by the Less Privileged Children Encouragement Initiative in Ijebu-Ode.
He noted that the alliance between the Government and NGOs in creating inclusive and sustainable solutions for the underprivileged would drive significant social change, build resilience, and foster an equitable society.
Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Hon. Motunrayo Adeleye, while delivering her lecture on the theme, “Uniting for a Cause: The Crucial Role of Collaboration Between Government and NGOs in Supporting the Less Privileged,” said supporting vulnerable individuals should be a collective responsibility, underscoring the need for sustainable partnership.
Hon. Adeleye urged various NGOs not to see themselves as competitors to the government but as partners in progress, emphasising that the flexibility of NGOs in reaching grassroots communities and their innovative approaches should complement government efforts.
She noted that to achieve meaningful and lasting change, government policies must be intentionally designed to integrate and support the innovative work of NGOs, adding that investing in people would create a stronger workforce, a more stable society and a future that would benefit humanity.
Hon. Adeleye noted that, for collaboration between the government and NGOs to thrive, transparency and accountability must be at the heart of every partner. She charged government agencies, NGOs and other stakeholders to translate good intentions into impactful actions by strengthening partnerships, supporting ongoing initiatives and creating new pathways for the less privileged.
Earlier, the founder of the Less Privileged Children Encouragement Initiative, Dr. Rotimiolu Akinlesi, stated that the organisation’s focus was to protect and promote the rights of children, especially the most disadvantaged in society.
He emphasised that the organisation would continue to impact the lives of underprivileged individuals across the country, while calling on all well-meaning Nigerians to adopt a change in mindset and contribute their quota towards the betterment of humanity.
