We’ll reinvent CSOs’ liaison office at NASS -Lawmakers

Lawmakers weekend said they will reinvent the civil society organisations, CSOs’ liaison office in the National Assembly.

They said the move would ensure smooth collaboration between NASS members and CSOs for effectiveness in the government.

The NASS members revealed this at the just concluded joint workshop organized for the Senate Committee on Diaspora and Non-Governmental Organziations, NGOs, and House of Representatives Committee on Civil Societies and Development Matters in Lagos.

The lawmakers further urged the stakeholders to give the CSOs space to operate freely and without fear of reprisal in the country.

The two-day workshop, funded by the European Union-Agents for Citizen Driven Transformation, EU-ACT, had the theme: “Understanding and Sustaining Collaborations with Civil Society.”

In his remarks, the Chairman Senate Committee on Diaspora & Non-Governmental Organizations NGOs, Dr Victor Umeh, said the National Assembly would reinvent the civil society organisations’ liaison office for better collaboration and smooth running of government.

He said: “Understanding collaboration with civil society entails recognizing the unique strengths and perspectives they bring to the table.

“CSOs possess invaluable grassroots knowledge, enabling them to identify local needs and devise context-specific solutions. Their independence allows them to serve as honest brokers, bridging gaps between different stakeholders and advocating for inclusive policies.

“Sustaining collaboration is not without its challenges. Differences in priorities, power dynamics, and resource constraints can hinder effective partnerships.”

“Moreover, in some contexts, civil society faces increasing restrictions and attacks on their autonomy, making collaboration even more challenging.

“As such, it’s incumbent upon all stakeholders to safeguard the space for civil society to operate freely and without fear of reprisal.

“By harnessing the collective wisdom, energy, and creativity of civil society, we can address the most pressing challenges facing our world today, from climate change and poverty to inequality and injustice.

“Let us reaffirm our commitment to partnership and solidarity, recognizing that together, we are stronger and more resilient in the face of adversity.”