*says project will strengthen accountability, transparency in govt at all level
By Michael Oche
In a bid to strengthen transparency and accountability in governance at all level, the Centre for Transparency Advocacy (CTA) has launched a project which aims to mobilize citizens, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders to actively track and engage with government spending.
The project tagged, Strengthening Accountability and Governance in Nigeria Initiative (SAGNI) is being implemented with support from the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Programme (RoLAC) and funding from the European Union through International IDEA.
Speaking during the launch in Abuja on Tuesday, CTA Executive Director, Faith Nwadishi, underscored the importance of citizens involvement in monitoring government accountability, noting, “SAGNI is a step towards a governance culture that resists corruption and fosters transparency.”
She explained that since the FOI Act’s passage in 2011, some progress has been made regarding its implementation, but noted that significant barriers remain.
“The Act has a concerning number of exemptions, making it challenging for the average citizen to access government information,” she noted.
Nwadishi highlighted some of those challenges to include complex terminology within the Act, such as “public interest,” which often creates ambiguity. Another challenge is Nigeria’s literacy rate, which stands at just 57.9%, limiting citizens’ understanding and engagement with the Act.
To overcome these challenges, Nwadishi said the project activities will include research, capacity-building workshops, policy dialogues, and advocacy engagements, all designed to improve access to information and to make the FOI Act an effective tool in citizens’ hands.
She said the SAGNI initiative also facilitate the establishment of FOI desks within key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and form FOI support groups for citizens, media, and legal professionals, amplifying the voices of the Nigerian public in governance processes.
In his address, Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi said the FOI Act guarantees the right of citizens to request government information and records without establishing the intent or reason for the request.
Represented by Garuba Godwin, Head Freedom of Information unit at the Ministry of Justice, the minister said the Act is applicable to all Public Institution which includes the three (3) Arms of Government and private companies utilising public funds, providing public services or performing public functions.
He said Federal Ministry of Justice has held several engagement with Public institution through sensitizations, round table meetings and various communication platform in ensuring compliance with the Act.
He said his ministry is collaborating with different Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Public Institutions in ensuring citizens’ participation in governance to strengthen transparency in Public institutions, and foster a culture of accountability
The minister said, “This project is a testament to the commitment of promoting accountability and inclusivity in our society. By fostering a better understanding of governance, we can work towards creating a more informed citizen in Nigeria, where everyone has the opportunity to access government information.”
The launch had in attendance commissioners of Justice from Edo and Anambra states as well as representatives from CSOs, media, National Commission for Persons with disabilities and others.