Unifying Forces for Sustainable Development: Insights from the Ebonyi State Coalition of Civil Societies Organization Event

Introduction

The 26th-27th of October 2023 marked a significant milestone for the Ebonyi State Coalition of Civil Societies Organization, a dynamic assembly dedicated to “Deepening Development Through Partnership.” The event opened with a solemn prayer by a Reverend Sister, accompanied by the resonating echoes of the Nigerian National Anthem.

Recognition and Dignitaries

The occasion was graced by distinguished personalities, including His Royal Highness, representatives of the Federal Character and Governance Office (FCGO), the Commissioner of Police, ED DOVENET, six other Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), FTDO, and emerging entities that have recently joined this noble cause.

Welcome Address by Mrs. Ugo Nnachi

Mrs. Ugo Nnachi extended a warm welcome, setting the tone for a collaborative and insightful gathering. Her words resonated with the spirit of unity, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts for the advancement of Ebonyi State.

Opening Remarks by Dr. Kelechukwu Okezie

Dr. Kelechukwu Okezie, in his opening remarks, outlined the primary objective of the coalition: to unite all CSOs in Ebonyi State, fostering an environment for learning, information exchange, and the successful operation of these essential organizations.

Key Objectives

The coalition’s objectives include educating CSOs on effective organizational management and emphasizing the use of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) and Community Charter of Demands (CCD) for resource mobilization and project execution.

Guiding Principles for NGOs

The speakers underscored the sacrifice inherent in running an NGO, stressing the need for unwavering passion and commitment. Mrs Nnachi highlighted the importance of prioritizing goals over financial gain and encouraged organizations to be distinctive rather than following popular trends solely for fame and monetary benefits.

Strategies for NGO Visibility

Dr. Okezie offered practical advice on NGO visibility, urging organizations to transcend local recognition and ensure that their projects and community services are well-documented and publicized. He emphasized the constant scrutiny by the public, reminding attendees that “someone is always watching.”

Defined Goals and Grant Acquisition

The importance of having clearly defined goals and understanding the target audience was emphasized, coupled with practical insights on applying for grants and funding to sustain projects.

Expectations and Future Engagement

Every CSO was urged to register under the coalition, with the commitment to convene monthly meetings, fostering continuous collaboration and knowledge sharing among CSOs in Ebonyi State.

Conclusion

The event concluded on a high note, with participants expressing their satisfaction at being part of such an informative and collaborative gathering. The call for unity, distinctiveness, and strategic visibility echoed as a promise for a brighter future for civil society organizations in Ebonyi State. The journey towards deepening development through partnership had commenced, leaving attendees inspired and motivated to contribute to the positive transformation of their communities. 😊