By Ayomide Otitoju
President Bola Tinubu and Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu have called on Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and Community-Based Organisations (CBOs) to embrace patriotism, accountability and stronger partnerships in advancing Nigeria’s sustainable development.
The leaders made the call at the National Summit of Civil Society Organisations and Community-Based Organisations held in Lagos on Wednesday, where they stressed the need for closer collaboration between government and civil society.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, President Tinubu described the summit’s theme, “Nigeria First and Sustainable Development,” as timely and significant.
He said the “Nigeria First” philosophy places the welfare of Nigerians at the centre of government policies and development initiatives while promoting inclusive, climate-resilient and future-focused growth through purposeful leadership.
According to the President, the summit aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic reforms, national security, food security, infrastructure, healthcare, education, industrialisation and good governance.
Tinubu identified agriculture, the blue economy, renewable energy and environmental sustainability as critical sectors where stronger partnerships between government and civil society could accelerate economic growth and improve livelihoods.
While reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to working with civil society organisations, he urged them to ensure that national interest remains paramount when accepting foreign funding.
Governor Sanwo-Olu described the summit as a defining moment for the country, saying Nigeria requires unity, patriotism and constructive engagement to overcome its challenges.
He said the “Nigeria First” theme should serve as a guiding principle for citizens, leaders and institutions to place national interest above ethnic, religious and political differences.
Sanwo-Olu described CSOs as indispensable partners in democratic governance, noting that they play a vital role in promoting accountability, transparency, electoral integrity, public health, gender equality and good governance.
He, however, urged civil society groups to ensure their advocacy remains factual, constructive and patriotic.
The governor highlighted Lagos State’s long-standing partnership with civil society through open budget processes, town hall meetings and regular consultations on education, healthcare, transportation, environmental protection and social welfare.
He expressed confidence in Nigeria’s future, citing the country’s youthful population, entrepreneurial potential, abundant natural resources and more than 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
Earlier, the National Convener of the summit, Hon. Kunle Yusuf, said the CSO platform serves as the coordinating body for accredited civil society organisations across the country.
He disclosed that the platform comprises about 6,000 registered CSOs, CBOs and non-governmental organisations implementing programmes aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Yusuf said the summit focused on national unity, peace and security, food security, climate action, democratic governance, institutional reforms and strategic public communication.
He also urged civil society organisations to combat misinformation by promoting only verified information and to strengthen collaboration with community-based organisations to advance national unity and sustainable development.
