ACCOUNTABILITY LAB NIGERIA SEEKS ENGAGEMENT OF YOUTHS IN GOVERNANCE
Accountability Lab Nigeria has called for the consolidation of the nation’s democracy and good governance in Nigeria by creatively engaging young people in the country.
The Country director, Accountability Lab Nigeria, Friday Odeh, stated this at the official unveiling of Voice2Rep – Raise your voice project yesterday in Abuja.
Odeh said the organisation is pushing for accountability and transparency in governance, said young people should be given greater participation in the political process to create a unified voice for an inclusive and fair society.
He said: “Nigerians continues to suffer from entrenched challenges around accountability and lack of representation. Ordinary citizens in most cases remain political spectators quietly suffering the agony of poor governance and its consequences.
“With Voice2Rep, one of the things we look to address is engaging renowned musicians and development experts.
“We will mentor first time artists to make songs on elections, women’s rights and accountability. In this way, the music becomes the gateway towards large changes in behaviours and knowledge will be appreciated.
“It will address key challenges that include the low level of knowledge among Nigerians about their lives and their responsibilities and the importance of elections, the need to vote for candidates with policies rather than simply based on their personalities.
Speaking on the new project, he said: “Voice to Represent (Voice2Rep) is a first of its kind music competition searching for top first-time WaZoBia-Pigin English music artists who support greater representation, participation and accountability across Nigeria.
“It gives these rising stars a platform to make their voices heard, connect with socially-conscious leaders in the music industry and build the skills they need to shape the future of the country through music.
“Voice2Rep is run by Accountability Lab Nigeria in partnership with the Dutch Embassy Chocolate City, one of the largest music platforms and entertainment companies on the African continent.”
Culled from Leadership September, 2018
