Kano Patriotic CSOs Coalition Forum (KPCF), representing more than 451 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) across Kano State, has commended the Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, for strengthening collaboration between the state government and civil society groups.
The commendation was contained in a statement jointly signed by the Lead Convener of the coalition, Mustapha Muhammed Chiroma, alongside Co-Conveners Ibrahim Hassan Gama and Peter Hassan Tijjani.
The coalition praised the revival and repositioning of the Special Assignments Department within the Ministry of Information and Internal Affairs, describing it as a strategic initiative that has provided an effective platform for engagement, consultation, and partnership between government and civil society organizations.
According to the coalition, the initiative has enhanced citizen participation in governance and created opportunities for constructive dialogue on issues affecting communities across the state.
KPCF also acknowledged the efforts of the administration of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in promoting inclusive governance and recognizing civil society organizations as critical stakeholders in the state’s development agenda.
They noted that under Comrade Waiya’s leadership, the ministry has facilitated several engagements with civil society groups, enabling stakeholders to provide policy feedback, contribute to public discourse, and channel citizens’ concerns and recommendations to government for appropriate action.
The coalition leaders observed that for many years, trust and communication gaps existed between government institutions and civil society actors. However, they said recent engagement initiatives introduced by the ministry have significantly improved relations, fostering mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation.
According to them, the renewed partnership has strengthened transparency, accountability, and citizen-centred governance in Kano State.
The KPCF further commended Comrade Waiya for championing the rehabilitation, empowerment, and reintegration of repentant youths through the Safe Corridor Kano Model Programme.
The coalition described the programme as an innovative and sustainable response to challenges such as political violence, thuggery, Daba activities, criminality, and drug abuse, noting that it reflects the government’s commitment to promoting peace and social stability through non-kinetic measures.
The statement reaffirmed the coalition’s support for initiatives that encourage citizen participation and government accountability, while urging the Kano State Government to institutionalize existing engagement mechanisms to ensure continuous dialogue between government and citizens.
They also called on civil society organizations across the state to take advantage of the existing platforms for constructive engagement and partnership in support of peacebuilding, social inclusion, democratic governance, and sustainable development.
The coalition pledged its continued collaboration with government and other stakeholders to advance civic participation and promote policies that will improve the wellbeing of residents across Kano State.