The Association of Non-governmental organisations (ANGO), an umbrella body of civil society groups in Gombe State, has launched its Strategic Plan 2025-2030.
The ANGO also commissioned the ‘Savannah Civic Centre’, a hub for civil society organisations (CSOs) in the state.
WikkiTimes reports that the plan and centre were launched during the inauguration ceremony of the newly elected officials of the association.
Chairman of ANGO, Bachama Yusuf, explained that the strategic plan, themed “Advancing the DEVAGOM: Leaving No One Behind,” underscores the role of civil society in promoting inclusive development and ensuring that no segment of society is left behind.
He said the plan is expected to guide the activities of CSOs in the state over the next five years, focusing on key areas such as peacebuilding, security, governance, and social protection.
“The commissioning of the Savannah Civic Centre provides a dedicated space for civil society organisations to operate, collaborate, and implement their programmes. The centre is expected to enhance the capacity of civil society to engage with government, development partners, and other stakeholders, ultimately contributing to the development of Gombe State”, he noted.
According to him, the centre is also aimed at promoting fiscal transparency, citizen education, research, and capacity building for CSOs, adding that it has facilities including high-speed internet and an e-library.
In his remarks, the chairman North-east Civil Society Forum, Ahmed Shehu, advocated earmarking of special funds for CSOs by state governments to enable organisations apply for grants to execute community development projects, as they know the needs and aspirations of communities.
State commissioner for budget and planning, Salihu Alkali, acknowledged the roles of civil society in promoting social justice, citizens’ participation in governance, and promised that his ministry would continue to work with them for the development of the state.
The ceremony was attended by top government officials and dignitaries, including a representative of the Secretary to the State Government, commissioners, Clerk to the State House of Assembly, representatives of the Commissioner of Police, Commandant of NSCDC, Director of SSS, Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the Executive Secretary of the Disability Commission and Sarkin Shanun Yamaltu among others.
