Yiaga Africa empowers Akwa Ibom residents to engage National Assembly representatives

Yiaga Africa, a non-governmental organization dedicated to promoting democratic governance, has urged citizens in Akwa Ibom State to actively engage their National Assembly representatives to ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the people.

The call was made during a sensitization event held on Saturday in Ikot Ekpene, which targeted constituents from Essien Udim, Ikot Ekpene, and Obot Akara federal constituencies.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Olaniyan Sanusi, Programme Officer at Yiaga Africa, explained that the initiative, known as the People’s Assembly, is designed to promote public deliberation on legislative activities and how they affect constituents.

He emphasised that such engagement encouraged transparency, accountability, and responsive governance.

“The People’s Assembly allows citizens to articulate their needs and present them to their legislators.

“When constituents actively participate in decision-making, the actions of elected officials reflect the community’s priorities rather than just the government’s agenda, ” he said.

Sanusi encouraged constituents to meet regularly, discuss common community issues, and channel their resolutions to representatives, fostering a culture of sustained civic participation.

Participants expressed optimism about the program.

Miss Joy Umo, a resident of Ikot Ekpene, said the engagement has helped them understand how to communicate their needs effectively, particularly for persons with disabilities.

“We are looking forward to building a strong relationship that bridges the gap between our representatives and us,” she said.

Similarly, Mr. Samson Umoh from Obot Akara Local Government Area appreciated the platform, noting that it allows constituents from different areas to exchange ideas and understand what their representatives are doing.

He also thanked Yiaga Africa and the European Union for facilitating the initiative.

The programme underscored the importance of citizen-driven governance and the role of NGOs and international partners in fostering active civic engagement in Nigeria.