Buhari launches volunteerism policy in Northwest – The Government of President Muhammadu Buhari has launched a sensitisation programme called ‘National Policy on Inclusive Volunteerism for Nigeria’ in the Northwest Region to complement its efforts in tackling challenges.
At least 50 volunteers were drawn across the North-western states during a two-day workshop held at Tahir Quest Palace, Kano.
The volunteerism programme was established in 2003 but suffered network across states.
The Muhammadu Buhari administration has reawakened it with the aim of drawing volunteers from across the country to complement the efforts of the federal government in tackling the myriads of socioeconomic, political and security challenges confronting the nation.
In his address, the Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Andrew David Adejo, said “the Nigerian government recognises volunteerism as a potential force and veritable tool capable of complementing government efforts towards national development.
“Volunteerism is a universal human phenomenon that contributes important social and economic benefits to society. It is in this regard that the government has approved a comprehensive National Policy on Inclusive Volunteerism and its Action Plan for implementation.
“The policy provides guidelines and direction for effective management of volunteerism in Nigeria. The government is also establishing a robust national volunteer database to be domiciled in the office of the SGF.
“This workshop provides the opportunity for soliciting the support of public and private stakeholders to key in for effective implementation of the policy as well as mobilising volunteers to embrace the task and services for development under a guided policy framework.”
Represented by Mrs O. Dada, Adejo said the database will provide information on volunteerism in the country as well as a platform for registration and profiling of volunteers which could be easily deployed to render their services in various areas of needs.
Secretary to the State Government of Kano, Alhaji Alhaji who, through a representative, declared the occasion opened, thanked the office of the SGF for selecting Kano among several equally deserving venues across the country to host the programme.
