Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
A transformative initiative aimed at empowering the youth of Benue State kicked off yesterday with the launch of the Institutional Accountability & Transparency (i-ACT) Project. Spearheaded by the NOBUL Africa Foundation in collaboration with the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund (NYFF), the project seeks to revolutionize youth-driven governance in the region.
During the launch event in Makurdi, Soohemba Agatha Aker, Director of NOBUL Africa Foundation, delivered a compelling keynote address. She emphasized the urgent need for the project to thrive, highlighting the challenges faced by young people in Benue, including violence, displacement, and disrupted livelihoods. Aker stressed the importance of connecting youth to real governance opportunities to foster positive change.
Aker encouraged eligible Benue residents aged 18-35 to apply for the programme, with a special focus on women, persons with disabilities, and youth from marginalized communities. She noted that the i-ACT Project is expected to equip young people with the skills and knowledge to engage with public servants, identify gaps in service delivery, and advocate for policy change.
The launch marks a significant step toward youth inclusion in governance, supported by the Nigeria Youth Futures Fund and NOBUL Africa Foundation. The initiative aims to empower young people to move beyond grievances and play an active role in shaping the future of their communities.
The i-ACT Project offers a platform for Benue youth to transition from being bystanders to active participants in governance. Through a unique approach, it provides necessary skills, access, and opportunities to drive accountability and reform. Unlike traditional workshops, the programme combines practical training with hands-on experience in public institutions, enabling immersive learning, institutional immersion, and policy innovation.
This pioneering effort underscores a commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders in Benue State, paving the way for a more inclusive and responsive governance system.
Reported by Jennifer Ilawui
