31/07/2026
*ADVANCING YOUTHS PARTICIPATION IN GOVERNANCE AND STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY VOICES; AOIYEO HOLDS TOWNHALL MEETING…*
On Thursday 30th July 2026, the Abuja Original Inhabitants Youth Empowerment Organization (AOIYEO) successfully convened a Townhall Meeting at the Kuje Area Council Townhall, Abuja, under the theme "Indigenous Youth and Governance: Strengthening Community Voices."
The programme was implemented with funding support from the MacArthur Foundation through the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) as part of the project aimed at strengthening the voices of indigenous communities in key governance processes within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The programme commenced with opening remarks by the Chief of Staff of AOIYEO, Dr. Abubakar Sadiq, he highlighted the importance of empowering indigenous youths to become active participants in governance and democratic processes. Participants were reminded that sustainable development can only be achieved when communities are given the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to decisions that affect their lives. Facilitated discussions focused on the need for stronger civic engagement, increased awareness of citizens' rights and responsibilities, and greater collaboration between indigenous communities and relevant government institutions.
Bar. Moses Adayilo who is the Chairman of the FCT-YN Electoral Committee also made a significant presentation on *Youths Participation in Electoral Processes, with focus on the upcoming FCT-YN Elections*.
The discussions underscored the need for continuous civic education, leadership development, peaceful democratic engagement, and stronger partnerships among community stakeholders. Participants emphasized that indigenous youths possess the capacity to contribute significantly to community development when provided with opportunities, information, and platforms to engage constructively.
The townhall meeting recorded impressive participation from a wide cross-section of stakeholders, creating an atmosphere of open dialogue, mutual respect, and collaborative learning. It also contributed significantly to the increasing awareness of the importance of indigenous youth participation in governance and strengthened participants' understanding of their civic responsibilities.
The TownHall Meeting concluded, with a closing remarks from Dr. Daniel Aliyu Bakka, the president of the FCT Stakeholders Assembly.
AOIYEO extends its sincere appreciation to the MacArthur Foundation, CHRICED, community leaders, participants, facilitators, and all stakeholders whose invaluable contributions ensured the success of the programme.
