Nasarawa State Government said it has set up a platform that would regulate, harmonise, and identify with the activities of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to enhance and coordinate their operations in the state.
The Commissioner for Special Duties on Humanitarian, Social Services and Non-Governmental Organisations, Ms Margaret Elayo, stated this in a press conference to mark International NGO Day in Lafia, the state capital.
According to the Commissioner, the state government under her ministry has set up a platform to check the activities of all the NGOs in the state to avoid duplication.
“When I assumed office as commissioner, the first thing we did as a ministry was to set up a platform to have the records and numbers of NGOs in the state.
“This is to ensure that we do not have duplication where two or three NGOs represent the same thing where other departments are lacking.
“If you are not on that platform, then you are not an NGO in Nasarawa State. As a ministry, we will not condone any NGO that creates a platform to get the benefit and not doing the work,” she said.
She said that the ministry had collaborated with international bodies that were willing to donate funds to serious NGOs that were working in the state.
“Because there’s no point being in the state when getting funds either locally, nationally or internationally and all you do is to get an apartment, enjoy yourself and take pictures our people and said you have contributed immensely, we will not take that,” she warned.
Ms Elayo, however, appreciated the role of NGOs, noting that they have been instrumental in enhancing the lives of vulnerable people of Nasarawa state, providing essential support to meet their basic needs.
“NGOS are unsung heroes, tirelessly working to uplift marginalised communities, protect the environment, and advocate for human rights.
“As we celebrate International NGO Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to collaborate with NGOs and the media, they are not adversaries but partners on a shared journey towards progress,” she noted.
She called on stakeholders to join hands in celebrating the tireless efforts of NGOs, as the state anticipates further progress and the implementation of more vibrant, people-oriented projects that align with the goals of the SDGs.
“The commitment of the Nasarawa State Government to NGOS remains steadfast and is poised to grow even stronger through enhanced partnerships and increased support for NGOs and humanitarian social services,” Elayo added.
World NGO Day is celebrated annually on February 27th to recognise the incredible impact of non-governmental organisations (NGOs) on societies worldwide. This day provides an opportunity to reflect on NGOs’ vital role in addressing some of the world’s most pressing issues, such as poverty, inequality, and human rights violations.
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