BY USMAN MOHAMMED, NOVEMBER 20, 2024 | 10:43 AM
The Center for Advocacy Transparency and Accountability Initiative (CATAI), a youth-led NGO funded by ActionAid Nigeria with support from ActionAid Denmark, has organized a validation workshop to empower Borno youth to actively participate in shaping the state's development plan.
The CATAI's Strategic Partnership Agreement SPA II project brings together diverse stakeholders, including government ministries, youth groups, civil society organizations, and parliamentary bodies.
The project aims to align the Borno State 25 Year Development Plan with the aspirations and needs of the state's young population.
The validation workshop, which was held on Tuesday at Penacle Hotel, reviewed the progress of an action plan developed by CATAI in 2022 to complement the 25-year development plan.
Ibrahim Sabo Abdulkadir, the SPATU project lead, in an interview with YERWA EXPRESS NEWS, highlighted the project's goal of bridging the gap between youth and governance.
'The validation workshop is a crucial step to review research findings and develop a final implementation plan,' Abdulkadir said. 'We aim to identify any overlooked areas and ensure the plan comprehensively addresses Borno State's challenges and opportunities.'
Mustapha Abba Kaka the project consultant, explained that the initiative builds on previous efforts to develop a youth development plan, which were abandoned due to funding constraints.
He said CATAI's involvement has revived the process and aligned it with the state's broader development agenda.
'Our findings have revealed significant alignment with the Borno State Development Plan in areas like implementation, peacebuilding, and mental health,' Bukar said.
'We conducted extensive consultations with communities, traditional rulers, people with disabilities, and government ministries to gather input and shape the plan.'
Yusuf Mustapha Mohammed, director, youth empowerment, emphasized the Borno State Government's commitment to youth empowerment, job creation, and youth participation in governance.
He commended CATAI's efforts and called for longer-term programs to ensure the benefits reach all parts of the state.
By empowering young people to participate in decision-making and policy formulation, the CATAI project is fostering a more inclusive and responsive governance system in Borno State.
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