Governments must prioritize transparency and accountability to achieve sustainable development, said Mr. Martins Daubry, Project Lead of the Accountability and Development Project. He made this statement during the opening session of a two-day training program titled “Strengthening Capacity of Youth and Community-Based Organisations for Accountability and Development.”
The two day event, held recently at the Azaiki Public Library in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, was supported by Leap Africa and Nigeria Youth Future Funds (NYFF) with funding from the MacArthur Foundation, Ford Foundation, and Luminate. It brought together youth leaders, development advocates, and community-based organizations from all eight Local Government Areas in Bayelsa State. Participants were trained in leadership and advocacy skills aimed at equipping them to promote transparency, drive community change, and demand greater accountability from authorities.
In his address, Daubry emphasized the importance of alternative approaches to achieving good governance. He urged participants to explore advocacy, diplomacy, dialogue, stakeholder engagement, and town hall meetings instead of relying solely on protests. “These methods can create meaningful change in communities across the state and beyond,” he remarked, adding that youth leaders must play a pivotal role in fostering development and bridging leadership gaps.
One of the facilitators, Engr. Sapre-Obi Ebipuado, delivered a thought-provoking lecture on the foundations of accountable leadership. He stressed the importance of integrity and self-discipline for leaders, urging participants to utilize their newly acquired skills to demand sustainable development and transparency from public office holders.
Chief Nabai Alfred Inemugha, Managing Solicitor of Probity Legal Services, highlighted the role of social media in advocacy and accountability. He cited impactful campaigns like #EndSARS and #BringBackOurGirls as examples of effective digital movements. Inemugha encouraged attendees to adhere to ethical standards when using social media to promote change, emphasizing that responsible communication is crucial for credibility and impact.
Other notable speakers included Engr. Udengs Eradiri, former President of the Ijaw Youth Council, Mr. Tarinyo Akono, a communications expert, and Dr. Matthew Ayibakuro, Governance Advisor at the Foreign Commonwealth Development Office (FCDO) in Abuja. Each facilitator brought unique insights into how youth leaders can champion accountability and sustainable governance.
Participants described the training as transformative. Victoria Berena, a youth leader, expressed gratitude to the organizers and sponsors for creating such an impactful event. “This training has been enlightening. I plan to apply the knowledge to my workplace, business, and community, striving to be a positive influence,” she said.
The event concluded with certificates of participation awarded to attendees, symbolizing their readiness to advocate for transparency and accountability in their respective communities. By empowering the youth, the organizers aim to foster a culture of responsible leadership and sustainable development in Bayelsa State and beyond.
