The Centre for Youth Participation, Dialogue, and Advocacy Africa (CYPA Africa) has assumed a pivotal role in advocating for enhanced citizen engagement within Nigeria’s constitutional review process.
Under the stewardship of its Executive Director, Ambassador Chris Iyama, CYPA Africa has underscored the historical deficiency in inclusive participation and emphasized the imperative of amplifying the voices of citizens to shape the trajectory of the nation.
During a recent town hall meeting and workshop convened in Plateau State, a diverse array of stakeholders, comprising civil society organizations, faith-based groups, and youth councils, convened to contribute to the ongoing constitutional reform efforts.
Ambassador Iyama reiterated the significance of citizen participation in sculpting the constitutional landscape of the nation, advocating for inclusivity and prioritization of public sentiments.
“It is indispensable to solicit the opinions of citizens and ensure their voices resonate on critical matters. The era of a select few dictating policies that govern the masses must come to an end. Everyone must be afforded a seat at the table,” emphasized Ambassador Iyama.
Drawing attention to the absence of a “people’s constitution” since Nigeria’s transition to democracy, Ambassador Iyama called for broader representation across all segments of society in the constitutional review process.
Expressing optimism regarding the forthcoming submission of memoranda to the National Assembly, Ambassador Iyama hailed the diverse participation of stakeholders as indicative of a collective yearning for positive transformation.
Barrister I.K Anyalewechi of Equity International Initiative underscored the significance of citizen engagement in Nigeria’s constitutional reform, urging proactive involvement over passive grievances. He stressed that citizens have a duty to contribute to a constitution reflective of the aspirations of all Nigerians.
In his address, Sir Jonathan Lokpobiri Snr, President of IJAW Council Worldwide, emphasized the paramountcy of unity and empathy, urging Nigerians to transcend ethnic and religious cleavages in addressing national challenges.
“It is incumbent upon Nigerians to exhibit the true essence of Nigerian identity. If any region suffers, we must stand together and speak against it. Until we perceive the suffering of every Nigerian as our own, we will continue grappling with these challenges,” articulated Sir Lokpobiri.
Hajiya Fatima Sulieman, Executive Director of ICIN, reiterated the necessity of inclusivity and impartiality in the review process, advocating for a neutral and objective approach that accommodates the interests of all Nigerians.
Dr. Gad Shamaki, Executive Director of CLEEN Foundation, delivered a keynote address stressing the pivotal role of citizen engagement in addressing overlooked issues and ensuring justice and equity for future generations.
“It is imperative to prioritize the needs of marginalized groups and ensure their voices resonate in shaping a society founded on fairness and equity,” affirmed Dr. Shamaki.
Panelists and delegates engaged in robust discussions encompassing various facets of constitutional reform, deliberating on citizenship, legal entitlements, the role of civil society, and the indispensability of responsive governance and accountability.
