REPORT ON TRAINNING OF COMMUNITY ACTIVISTS ON ELECTION OBSERVATION

Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) is a capacity
building civil society organization whose activities cover research, advocacy,
training and publicity in all areas of ICT for development and good governance.
CITAN in partnership with Action Aid Nigeria held a training for 30 (21 males and 9
females) community activists on election observation, on Tuesday 1 st February,
2022 at Goodview hotel Dutse Alhaji, Abuja. The training aims to improve
accountability and transparency in the electoral processes, and to strengthen
citizen’s voices in other to amplify actions in pursuing specific policy change
proposals in Nigeria.
The training started with a self-introduction by participants, followed by a
welcome address by Mubarak Ekute who explained to the participants the
purpose of the training. There was a quick review of the FCT observer’s election
experiences of the past elections from the fields and photo gallery, for better
positioning at the coming election.
Celestine Okwudili ODO AAN’s governance manager exposed the participants to
the election observation procedure and code of conduct while understanding the
key principles, electoral guideline in line with the electoral frame work, incident
reporting & escalation of issues; procedures for communicating issues from the
field to the situation room and understanding the observation checklist. In his
presentation he stated that the training was to make voters observe the dos and
don’ts of election generally, especially in the Abuja Municipal Area council’s up-
coming election. The experiences of past elections there were many challenges,
especially the failure of machines, thuggery, vote buying, hijacking of ballot boxes
and sundry issues. The training showed the participants that the February 12
election is an opportunity to change the Local Government chairmen that failed in
carrying out responsibilities for their communities.
The training was interactive, participatory and inclusive as participants asked
questions and discussed. A social media platform was created to allow all
participants to engage in and raise their concerns after the training, before the

Election Day. A toolkit on election observation was presented to each participant
in order to learn, engage and take action while on the field. The challenge
encountered was in time management, the time was not enough to allow for
group works, as participants had to break to pray and have lunch at intervals.
Yesmin Salako delivered a vote of thanks to end the training, she stated that the
participants should make sure they do not sell their next four years, but rather
secure their future. She assured the participants that they will be kept abreast of
the next process to get their kits to observe the election.

CITAD, Bauchi SUBEB Partner to Promote Transparency in Procurement

Segun Awofadeji

The Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Bauchi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), in procurement, to promote transparency and accountability.

This was disclosed by a Senior Programme Manager of CITAD, Isa Garba, when he led his team on advocacy to SUBEB and his management.

According to him, CITAD trains directors and deputy directors on accountability and transparency in public service.

“We are here today to inform you that CITAD is granted by the United Sates Agency for International Development (USAID) through the ‘State Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness’ (State2State) to implement a governance project in Bauchi State,” he explained. “The goal of the project is to strengthen citizens’ participation in governance through active participation in the budgetary and procurement processes of the state.”

According to him, the project’s objectives include enhancing the capacity of 40 CSOs to engage both government and citizens in the budget process to improve citizens’ participation in budget processes and the skills of 40 government officials, among others.

He added that in the implementation process, CITAD would work with SUBEB and engage legislators in increasing the budgetary allocation to the education sector and help the agency in monitoring projects.

In his response, Permanent Commissioner, Alhaji Idris Hardawa, said, “Our books are always open for you to go through, and we are ready to work with you in achieving a transparent procurement atmosphere. We are partners with you in the development of the basic education sector.”

He added, “Everything we do here is open and transparent in line with financial and procurement regulations. We ensure that due process is followed in procurement transactions.”

EVENTS FOR THE WEEK 14 TH T0 20 TH FEBRUARY, 2022

1. Event: Social Media for Accountability Training (SM4A)
Date: Monday 14th Feb., 2022
Time: 10:00AM
Venue: CITAD social media lab
For more Information, please contact suhai@citad.org
2. Event: Partnership Building Meeting with IHS Rural Telephony
Date: Monday 14 th Feb., 2022
Time: 2:30pm
Venue: Microsoft teams cloud meeting app
For more Information, please contact suhail@citad.org
3. Programme: Criminality In a Society; Causes And How To Curtail it
Anchor: Sheik Abbas Alhassan
Date: Every Monday
Time: 11am-11:30am
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org
4. Program: Likitan CITAD
Topic: Farfadiya (Epelapsy)
Guest: Dr. Kabiru A. Yusuf
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
Date: Duk Ranar Litinin
Time: 2:30pm
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org
5. Event: Continuation of DIT program.
Venue: CITAD Office Jama’are, Bauchi
Date: Monday, 14 th – Wednesday, 16 th February, 2022.
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 pm
for details, please, Contact: dahiru@citad.org
6. Event: ICT training for the 2nd batch of Digital Livelihood for young women and girls
Date: Monday 14 th – Wednesday 16 th February 2022
Time: 9:00am daily
Venue: CITAD's Computer Lab NBTE Centre
For details, please contact ibrahim@citad.org
7. Event: Child Message Collection
Venue: FCT rural communities
Date: Monday 14 th -Friday 18 th February 2022
Time: 10am
For more Information, please contact info@citad.org
8. Event: ICT classes
Venue: GGSS JANBULO
Date: Tuesday 15 th February 2022
Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm
For more Information please contact zainab@citad.org
9. Event: Martabar'ya mace
Venue: Express Radio
Date: Tuesday 15 th February 2022
Time: 11:00am to 12:00pm
For details, please contact Zainab@citad.org
10. Event: WeYou Ambassadors Monthly Meeting

Venue: City Centre Hotels
Date: Tuesday 15 th February, 2022
Time: 9:00 daily
For more information please contact isah@citad.org
11. Event: Mentors Induction Meeting
Venue: City Centre Hotels
Date Wednesday 16 th and Thursday 17 th February, 2022
Time9:00 daily
For more information please contact isah@citad.org
12. Programme: Public Speaking Is Not a Barrier
Anchor: Sheik Abbas Alhassan
Date: every Wednesday
Time: 10:30
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information, please contact asabo@citad.org
13. Event: ICT classes
Venue: GGSS AISAMI
Date: Wednesday 16 th February 2022
Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm
For more Information please contact zainab@citad.org
14. Event: Twitter Chat on COVID19 Vaccination Centres in Kano
Date: Thursday 17 th Feb., 2022.
Time: 2:30pm
Venue: Twitter.
For more Information please contact hamza@citad.org
15. Program: LITERACY CAN'T WAIT
Anchor: Patience Obande
Date: Every Thursday
Time: 11am
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org
16. Event: Mu Fahimci Riga Kafin Corona
Date: Saturday, 18th February, 2022
Time: 9am
Venue: Radio Kano (Am/FM)
For more Information please contact hamza@citad.org
17. Event: 2nd Episode of Radio Program on Freedom of Information Act (FOI)
Venue: Albarka Radio 97.5FM Bauchi
Date: Saturday 18 th February, 2022
Time: 4:00pm – 5:00pm
For more Information please contact isah@citad.org
18. Event: ICT Classes for Teachers of GGSS Jambulo and Aisami
Venue: CITAD Lab
Date: 18th February 2022
Time: 3:00pm to 5:00pm
For more information please contact zainab@citad.org
19. Event: ICT Classes
Venue: GGSS Dorayi Karama
Date: 17th February 2022
Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm
For more information please contact zainab@citad.org

20. Event: Monthly Online Dialogue on GBV
Venue: Zoom
Date: 17 th February 2022
Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm
For more information please contact zainab@citad.org
21. Event: Commencements of DIT program
Date: Saturday 19 th – Monday 21 st February 2022
Time: 10:00am
Venue: CITAD Office, GSS Itas, Bauchi State
For more information please contact muneeb@citad.org
22. Event: CSOs Consultative Meeting on Community Networks
Date: Saturday, February 19, 2022
Time: 11pm
Venue: online
For more Information, please contact info@citad.org
23. Event: Rigar Mutunci
Venue: Arewa Radio
Date: Sunday 20 th February, 2022
Time: 11:00 – 12:00PM
For more Information, please contact buhari@citad.org

EVENTS FOR THE WEEK 31ST JANUARY TO 6TH FEBRUARY, 2022

1. Programme: Criminality In a Society; Causes And How To Curtail it
Anchor: Sheik Abbas Alhassan
For more Information please
Date: Every Monday
Time: 11am-11:30am
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org

2. Program: Likitan CITAD
Topic: Farfadiya (Epelapsy)
Guest: Dr. Kabiru A. Yusuf
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
Date: Duk Ranar Litinin
Time: 2:30pm
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org

3. Event: Courtesy Visit to Wazobia fm 95.1
Venue: Wazobia fm studio Abuja
Date: Monday 31st January 2022
Time: 12pm
For more Information please contact yesmin@citad.org

4. Event: Continuation of DIT program.
Venue: CITAD Office Jama’are, Bauchi
Date: Monday, 30th January- Wednesday, 2nd February, 2022.
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 pm
for details, please, Contact: dahiru@citad.org

5. Event: GBV Mentors meeting
Venue: CITAD hall B
Date: Monday 1st February 2022
Time: 11:00am
For details, please contact Zainab@citad.org

6. Event: ICT training for the 2nd batch of Digital Livelihood for young women and girls
Date: Monday 31st January, – Wednesday 2nd February 2022
Time: 9:00am daily
Venue: CITAD’s Computer Lab
For details, please contact ibrahim@citad.org

7. Event: Monthly WeYou Influencers Meeting for the Month of January
Date: Monday 30th January, 2022
Venue: Ni’ima Hotel, Kano
Time: 10:00am
For details, please contact isah@citad.org

8. Event: ICT classes
Venue: GGSS JANBULO
Date: Tuesday 1st February 2022
Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm
For more Information please contact zainab@citad.org

9. Event: Martabar’ya mace
Venue: Express Radio
Date: Tuesday 1st February 2022
Time: 11:00am to 12:00pm
For details, please contact Zainab@citad.org

10. Event: Meeting with Network for Electronic Cab Drivers Association
Venue: CITAD Kano
Date: Tuesday 1st January 2022
Time: 2pm
For details, please contact kamal@citad.org

11. Event: Training of Electoral Observers.
Venue: Goodview Hotel Abuja
Date: Tuesday 1st February 2022
Time: 9:00am
For more Information please contact info@citad.org

12. Event: Two Day Training on Plastics Waste Management for Women in Bauchi State
Venue: CITAD’s Training Centre, Jama’are Local Govt. Bauchi State
Date: Wednesday and Thursday 2nd and #rd February, 2022
Time: 9 AM Daily

13. Programme: Public Speaking Is Not a Barrier
Anchor: Sheik Abbas Alhassan
Date: every Wednesday
Time: 10:30
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information, please contact asabo@citad.org

14. Event: ICT classes
Venue: GGSS AISAMI
Date: Wednesday 2nd February 2022
Time: 11:00am to 1:00pm
For more Information please contact zainab@citad.org

15. Event: Twitter Chat on State of COVID Vaccination in Tsangaya Schools in Kano state
Date: Wenesday 2nd Feb., 2022
Time: 2:30pm
Venue: Twitter
For more Information please contact hamza@citad.org

16. Event: ICT for Kids, computer Training
School: Girls only Primary School.
Venue: CITAD office Jamaare.
Date: Wednesday, 2 January, 2022.
Time: 10: 00 – 11:30am.
For more Information please, Contact: dahiru@citad.org.

17. Event: Press Conference on COVID Vaccine Administration Hindrances in Selected States
Date: Thursday 3rd Feb., 2022
Time: 10:00am
Venue: NUJ Secretariat, Bauchi, Bauchi state
For more Information please contact hamza@citad.org

18. Event: Community Library Launch
Venue: Pasepa Community, FCT
Date: Thursday 3rd February 2022
Time: 10am
For more Information please contact yesmin@citad.org

19. Event: Launching Weekly Twitter Chat on COVID Vaccine
Date: Thursday 3rd February, 2022
2:00pm
Venue: Twitter
For details, please contact hamza@citad.org

20. Program: LITERACY CAN’T WAIT
Anchor: Patience Obande
Date: Every Thursday
Time: 11am
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org

21. Event: GBV Press Conference
Venue: CITAD HALL B
Date: Thursday 3rd February, 2022
Time: 11:00am
For more Information please contact zainab@citad.org

22. Event: Mu Fahinc Riga Kafin Corona
Date: Saturday, 5th February, 2022
Time: 9am
Venue: Radio Kano (Am/FM)
For more Information please contact hamza@citad.org

23. Event: Rigar Mutunci
Venue: Arewa Radio
Date: Sunday 6th February, 2022
Time: 11:00 – 12:00PM
For more Information, please contact buhari@citad.org

EVENTS FOR THE WEEK 24TH TO 30TH JANUARY 2022

1. Programme: Criminality In a Society; Causes And How To Curtail it
Anchor: Sheik Abbas Alhassan
For more Information please
Date: Every Monday
Time: 11am-11:30am
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org

2. Program: Likitan CITAD
Topic: Farfadiya (Epelapsy)
Guest: Dr. Kabiru A. Yusuf
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
Date: Duk Ranar Litinin
Time: 2:30pm
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org

3. Event: Continuation of DIT program.
Venue: CITAD Office Jama’are, Bauchi
Date: Monday, 24th – Wednesday, 26 January, 2022.
Time: 4:00 – 6:00 pm
for details, please, Contact: dahiru@citad.org

4. Event: Presentation of Gifts to the 3 Winners of Report A project competition
Venue: CITAD Office Kano
Date: Monday 24th January, 2022
Time: 2:00pm
For more Information, please contact buhari@citad.org

5. Event: Presentation of Gifts to the 3 Winners of Report A project competition
Venue: CITAD Office
Date: Monday 24th January, 2022
Time: 2:00pm
For more Information please contact isah@citad.org

6. Event: SI4A Project Team Meeting
Date: Monday, January 24, 2022
Time: 12noon
Venue: Boardroom, CITAD, Kano
For more Information please contact info@citad.org

7. Event: CNs Project Team Meeting
Date: Monday, January 24, 2022
Venue: CiTAD, Kano
Time: 3pm
For more Information please contact info@citad.org

8. Event: GBV Mentors meeting
Venue: CITAD hall B
Date: Monday 24th January 2022
Time: 11:00am
For details, please contact Zainab@citad.org

9. Event: PEV Meeting
Date: Tuesday, January, 25, 2022
Time: 4.00 pm
Venue: CITAD, Kano
For more Information please contact info@citad.org

10. GBV Project Meeting
Date; Tuesday, January 25, 2022
Time: 2.30pm
Venue: CITAD, Kano
For more Information please contact info@citad.org

11. Event: Martabar’ya mace
Venue: Express Radio
Date: Tuesday 25th January 2022
Time: 11:00am to 12:00pm
For details, please contact Zainab@citad.org

12. Event: Experience Sharing meeting of the MacArthur Foundation Sub-grantees’ project on Mobilizing and catalyzing Citizens’ Action for Accountable Election and Governance in Nigeria
Venue: Online
Date: Tuesday 25th and 26th January, 2022
Time: 11am-1pm daily
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org

13. Event: Kickoff of ICT classes
Venue: GGSS JANBULO
Date: Tuesday 25th January 2022
Time: 11:00am
For details, please contact Zainab@citad.org

14. Event: Inspiring Leadership Reflection Interactive Series (ILERIS)
Date: Wednesday, 26th January, 2022
Time: 10:00am
Venue: Hall B, 2nd floor, CITAD, Kano
For details, please contact hamza@citad.org

15. Event: Kickoff of ICT classes
Venue: GGSS AISAMI
Date: Wednesday 26th January 2022
Time: 11:00am
For details, please contact Zainab@citad.org

16. Programme: Public Speaking Is Not a Barrier
Anchor: Sheik Abbas Alhassan
Date: every Wednesday
Time: 10:30
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information, please contact asabo@citad.org

17. Event: Muryar Matasa
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
Date: Wednesday 26th Janaury, 2022
Time: 12:00PM – 12:30PM
For more Information please contact buhari@citad.org

18. Event: Learn and Teach Others Computer Training ( LATO)
School: Abdulkadir Ahmad Primary school.
Venue: A A P S ICT Center Jama’are Bauchi
Date: Thursday, 27, January, 2021.
Time: 10:00am – 12:30 pm.
for details, please, Contact: Contact: dahiru@citad.org.

19. Event: Meeting with Partners Public Education on COVID Vaccine Project
Date: Thursday 27th Jan., 2022
Time: 11:00am
Venue: Online
For details, please contact hamza@citad.org

20. Event: Monthly dialogue on GBV
Venue: Zoom
Date: Thursday 27th January 2022
Time: 11:00am to
11:00pm
For details, please contact Zainab@citad.org

21. Event: Launching Weekly Twitter Chat on COVID Vaccine
Date: Thursday 27th Jan., 2022
2:00pm
Venue: Twitter
For details, please contact hamza@citad.org

22. Program: LITERACY CAN’T WAIT
Anchor: Patience Obande
Date: Every Thursday
Time: 11am
Venue: CITAD Online Radio
For more Information please contact asabo@citad.org

23. Event: Media Briefing on Startups Bill and Community Networks
Date: Friday, January, 28, 2022
Time: 11am
Venue: Board Room, CITAD, Kano
Date: 2.30pm
For more Information please contact info@citad.org

24. Event: Mu Fahinc Riga Kafin Corona
Date: Saturday, 29th January, 2022
Time: 9am
Venue: Radio Kano (Am/FM)
For more Information please contact hamza@citad.org

25. Event: Rigar Mutunci
Venue: Arewa Radio
Date: Sunday 30th January, 2022
Time: 11:00 – 12:00PM
For more Information, please contact buhari@citad.org

EVENTS FOR THE WEEK 17TH – 23RD JANUARY, 2022

  1. Programme: Criminality In a Society; Causes And How To Curtail it

Anchor: Sheik Abbas Alhassan

Date: Every Monday

Time: 11am-11:30am

Venue: CITAD Online Radio

For more details, please contact asabo@citad.org

  1. Program: Likitan CITAD

Topic: Farfadiya (Epelapsy)

Guest: Dr. Kabiru A. Yusuf

Venue: CITAD Online Radio

Date: Duk Ranar Litinin (Every Monday)

Time: 2:30pm

For more details please contact asabo@citad.org

  1. Program: Najeriya a Maraici

   Presenter: Abdulhafiz Sultan

Venue: CITAD Online Radio

Date: Every Monday

Time: 4pm-4:30pm

For more details, please contact asabo@citad.org

  1. Event: Continuation of DIT program.

Venue: CITAD Office Jama’are

Date: Monday, 17th – 19th, January, 2022

Time: 4:00 – 6:00 pm

For more details, please contact dahiru@citad.org

  1. Event: Internet Safety and Security Training and Business Training in Digital Livelihood for young women and girls

Venue: CITAD’s Computer lab

Date: Monday 17th – 20th January, 2022

Time: 9am daily

For more details, please contact ibrahim@citad.org

  1. Event: SI4A Project Team Meeting

Date: Monday, January 17th, 2022

Time: 12noon

Venue: Boardroom, CITAD, Kano

For more details, please contact info@citad.org

  1. Event: CNs Project Team Meeting

Date: Monday, January 17, 2022

Venue: CITAD, Kano

Tine3pm

For more details, please contact info@citad.org

  1. Event: Organization Policy Implementation, Sustainability, Staff contribution, Meeting.

Venue: CITAD’s Conference room

Date: Monday 17th January, 2022

Time: 2:00PM

For more Information please contact isyaku@citad.org

  1.  Program: Social Media for Accountability Training

Venue: CITAD

Date: Monday 17th January 2022

Time: 9:30 – 1:00PM

For more Information, please contact suhail@citad.org

  1.  Event: Martabar ‘Ya Mace

Venue: Express Radio

Date: Tuesday 18th January 2022

Time: 11:00am to 12:00pm

For more details, please contact zainab@citad.org

  1. Event: PEV Meeting

Date: Tuesday, January, 18, 2022

Time: 12noon

Venue: CITAD, Kano

For more details please contact asabo@citad.org

  1. GBV Meeting

Date: Tuesday, January 18, 2022

Time: 3pm

Venue: CITAD, Kano

For more details please contact asabo@citad.org

  1. Programme: Public Speaking Is Not a Barrier

Anchor: Sheik Abbas Alhassan

Date: every Wednesday

Time: 10:30

Venue: CITAD Online Radio

For more details, please contact asabo@citad.org

  1. Programe:- ilimin’ya mace.

Topic: – Tattaunawa ta Musamman Akan Kalubalen da Mata ke Fuskanta a Bangaren ILIMI.                                Venue: – CITAD’s Online Radio.

 Date: – Thursday 20Th, January 2022.

Time: – 10:00

For more details please contact asabo@citad.org

  1.  Event: Learn and teach other Computer training (LATO)

School: Abdulkadir Ahmad Primary school.

Venue: AAPS ICT Center Jama’are.

Date: Thursday 20th January, 2021

Time: 10:00am – 12:00 pm.

For more details please contact dahiru@citad.org

  1. Program: LITERACY CAN’T WAIT

Anchor: Patience Obande

Date: Every Thursday

Time: 11am

Venue: CITAD Online Radio

For more details, please contact asabo@citad.org

  1. Event: Monthly Dialogue on Anti-Corruption Fight in Nigeria

Panelists: Abubakar Mu’azu, Jide Ojo, Chioma Agwuegbo

Venue: Zoom

Date: Thursday, 20th January, 2022

Time: 11am-1pm

For more details, please contact asabo@citad.org

  1. Event: Mu Fahinci Riga Kafin Corona

Date: Saturday, 6th November, 2021

Time: 9am

Venue: Radio Kano (Am/FM)

For more details, please contact hamza@citad.org

  1. Event: Program: Rigar MutuKan

Venue: Arewa Radio

Date: Sunday 23rd January 2022

Time: 11:00 -12:00

For more details, please contact buhari@citad.org

REPORT OF A MONTHLY DIALOGUE ON ANTI CORRUPTION FIGHT IN NIGERIA ORGANIZED BY THE CENTRE FOR INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AN DEVELOPMENT (CITAD) ON THE 10 TH OF FEBRUARY, 2022 VIA ZOOM

The Centre for Information Technology and Development had on 10 th of February, 2022 under
its project on Mobilizing and Catalyzing Citizens Action for Accountable Election and
Governance in Nigeria supported by MacArthur Foundation held its Second Dialogue on Anti-
Corruption Fight in Nigeria with three of its sub-grantees; Mu’azu Alhaji Modu, Executive
Director, Spotlight for Transparency and Accountability, Mustapha Bulama, Editorial Cartoonist
with Daily Trust and Joshua Alabi, Executive Director, KININSO KONCEPTS and moderated by
Kabiru Danladi, Lecturer with Department of Mass Communications, Ahmadu Bello University
Zaria. In the previous edition, CITAD hosted Abubakar Sadiq Mu’azu, Executive Director, Center
for Advocacy, Transparency and Accountability Initiative, Jide Ojo, Independent Researcher,
Writer, Public Affairs Analyst and Journalist and Chioma Agwuegbo, Executive Director,
TechHerNG, the session was chaired by Mukhtar Modibbo of Connected Development.
The aim of the dialogue is to give the sub-grantees under this project an opportunity to
regularly share their work with a wider audience in promoting accountability and fighting
corruption in Nigeria. The dialogue is also aimed at giving both the sub-grantees and young
people who have interest in the area an opportunity to discuss and share ideas.
Giving his remarks at the dialogue, the Executive Director of CITAD, Malam Yunusa Zakari Ya’u
who was represented by the Centre’s Communications Officer, Malam Ali Sabo said CITAD has
for many years been working in the area of accountability and fighting corruption in Nigeria and
empowering young people to demand for good governance in Nigeria. He further stated that,
the essence of organizing the monthly dialogue is to create a platform for the sub-grantees and
those who have an interest in the area to discuss ideas and learn from each other. “Corruption
and lack of accountability are the major obstacles towards the country’s growth and
development”. He stated. At the end, Malam Ya’u said, for citizens to effectively fight
corruption “we need one another, we need to collaborate with others working in area and
share our ideas.”
Sharing his experience on the different tools and mediums he uses in demanding for
accountability and fighting corruption, Mu’azu Alhaji Modu said in Yobe State his organization
selected 30 young people from 30 communities in six local governments in the state and
trained them on how to track Basic Health Care Funds. Also Mr. Modu said part of what they
are doing are advocacy visits to respective government agencies such as Yobe Primary
HealthCare Development Agency, Yobe State Contributory HealthCare Management Agency to
ensure what are being budgeted have reach the common people. Moreover, to ensure a robust

conversation between governments and citizens, Mr. Modu said they provided a platform
where citizens and government officials discuss issues affecting their communities.
Another panelist on the discussion, Mustapha Bulama of DailyTrust said there are many
informal ways that messages especially on anti-corruption could be sent to public, some of
these are through cartoons, illustrations and animations. Bulama said people find it hard to
read long articles on the internet, but when issues of corruption and fraud are simplified
through cartoons, people tend to understand it and appreciate it more. Bulama also said
creating awareness among people and reorientation especially on anti-corruption fight is very
important. The speaker also mentioned that using cartoons to display the negative affect of
vote buying is another way to sensitize the public about the importance of voting of competent
leaders in the country. At the end he mentioned that social media such Twitter, Facebook and
Instagram are some of the best platforms to reach young people and send messages to
government officials.
The last speaker, Joshua Alabi of KININSO KONCEPTS also discussed on the platforms he uses in
creating awareness on anti-corruption, accountability and electoral processes. Joshua said using
art and theatre for storytelling not in the way of entertainment but in changing the narrative of
the governance in the country is very important. Mr. Alabi said, as part of their efforts to
create awareness in the area of accountability and good governance they are transforming
stories into educative films around accountability and good governance. He further said,
collaboration with other stakeholders in the area such Nollywood Actors/Actress, Young people
and social media influencers is another way they are using to educate the public.
At the end participants asked questions and made comments.

CITAD Partners Bauchi SUBEB To Promote Transparency In Procurement Processes, Improve Basic Education

Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) has expressed its readiness to collaborate with the Bauchi State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) in the area of procurement in order to promote transparency and accountability as well as improve basic education.

The expression was made by a Senior Programme Manager of CITAD, Isa Garba when he led his team on advocacy to the Chairman of SUBEB and his management, Dr Surumbai Dahiru Usman.

Isa Garba said that CITAD has been working in the education sector of the state for a few years in the area of engaging some secondary schools for the conduction of the state-level inter-secondary schools ICTS Quiz and also at the national ICTs quiz where the then Government Technical College, Gadau won second position and government Arabic College, Jamaáre won the second position.

Training of SBMC on the roles to play for effective service delivery and monitoring of schools in the state;
Training of media on Participating in the activities of UNICEF educational activities in the state.

It is also to improve their ability to plan and budget, raise revenues, increase civil society participation, and oversee service delivery in the health; education; and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sectors.

The State2State works primarily at the state level, but also supports federal institutions and local government areas.
State2State specifically recognizes the role of the state governors and commissioners in driving forward reforms in Nigeria, but, importantly, gives equal weight to the essential role that national fiscal and development policy, citizen demand, and local innovation, collaboration, and learning across and among states play in solving governance, financing, and service delivery challenges.

He said that, “Sir, we are here today to inform you that CITAD is granted by the United Sates Agency for International Development (USAID) through the “State Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness” (“State2State”) to implement a governance project in Bauchi state”.

“The goal of the project is to strengthen citizens’ participation in governance through active participation in the budgetary and procurement processes of the state”, he added.

According to him, “While the objectives of the project are: Enhance the capacity of 40 CSOs to engage both government and citizens in the budget process as means of improving citizens’ participation in budget processes; Enhance the skills of 40 government officials on the interface with citizens to collect, collate and use citizens input in the budget process and Facilitate the monitoring of procurement processes in the focal areas of education, health, youth and women development”

He said that, “In the implementation process on this project, CITAD will be working with SUBEB as a key area of our interest. Specifically, our engagement in the SUBEB will focus on building the capacity of the procurement unit of the board and also on how citizens can actively participate in the development of the education sector of the state”.

It will especially engage the legislators in increasing the budgetary allocation to the sector, help the agency in monitoring projects using an Android Application that will be developed and utilize as an interface avenue between the communities, their representatives at the house of assembly and the board to ensure that contracts are executed base on the contract agreements and specifications, as at when due and follow up with the Ministry of finance and the house of the assembly when there is a delay in the release of funds and any other engagement that will promote effective service delivery of the sector.

“Therefore, we are soliciting the support of your office to work with us in achieving the objectives of the project as well as contributing our quota in transforming the education sector of the state which is the major deliverables of the board”, he concluded.

In his response, Permanent Commissioner 1, Alh Idris Ahmed Hardawa said that the Board has in place a procurement office that is working in line with all procurement and financial regulations.

He said that, “Our books are always open for you to go through and we are ready to work with you in achieving a transparent procurement atmosphere. We are partners with you in the development of the basic education sector”.

The Permanent Commissioner 1 added that, “everything we do here is opened and transparent in line with financial and procurement regulations, we ensure that due process is followed in procurement transactions”.

 

President Muhammadu Buhari Friday at State House Abuja urged the MTN Group to make the available top-of-the-range service to its Nigerian subscribers…  CITAD partners Bauchi SUBEB to promote transparency in procurement processes, improve basic education  CITAD partners Bauchi SUBEB to promote transparency in procurement processes, improve basic education  CITAD partners Bauchi SUBEB to promote transparency in procurement processes, improve basic education  CITAD partners Bauchi SUBEB to promote transparency in procurement processes, improve basic education

Bauchi Govt Partners CITAD To Improve Procurement Process

An NGO, Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) says it is collaborating with the Bauchi State Bureau for Public Procurement Unit (BPPU) to improve procurement processes and deepen due process in the state. Mr Isa Garba, the Senior Programme Manager, CITAD, stated this during an advocacy visit to the Director-General of BPPU, Mr Joshua Sanga, on Friday in Bauchi. He said that CITAD was implementing a project under U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through the “State Accountability, Transparency and Effectiveness (State2State)”. “To implement a governance project and strengthen citizens’ participation in governance through active participation in the budgetary and procurement processes of the state,” he said. Garba noted that the partnership would facilitate monitoring of procurement processes in the focal areas of education, health, youth and women development. “Another component of the partnership is the development of an Android Application that will serve as a network between the citizens, legislators and the Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning. “The application called Office of the Citizens will serve as a link through which people in the communities will be reporting the status of projects in their communities. “Both the ministry of budget and their representative in the house of Assembly will see the report and react to it accordingly,” Garba said. He, however, appealed to the director-general of BPPU to always avail the staff of the office to serve as resource persons in media programmes. Sanga appreciated CITAD for its commitment to improving the procurement process in the state. He said that the programme was in line with the present administration policy on public procurement and due process. Sanga assured that the due process office would always be there to support the project, especially projects that have a direct bearing on the citizens.

This government is always ready to work with partners, who want to improve citizens’ understanding of the procurement processes and the Freedom of Information Act in the state,” Sanga said. Bauchi Govt partners CITAD to improve procurement process

Continue reading at https://northeaststarlive.com/bauchi-govt-partners-citad-to-improve-procurement-process/ | Widely Read Magazine

COURTESY VISIT REPORT TO WOMEN RIGHTS ADVANCEMENTS & PROTECTION ALTERNATIVE

Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) is a capacity-building civil Society organization whose activities cover research, advocacy, training, and publicity in all areas of ICT for development and good governance. It’s in the light of the above that the organisation paid a courtesy visit to the Women’s Rights Advancement & Protection Alternative (WRAPA). WRAPA Being an organisation committed to increasing women’s access to justice, by actualising women’s legal rights in public and private spaces, CITAD deem it necessary to pay a courtesy visit for familiarity, building relationships and possible collaboration for the betterment of our communities.

The courtesy visit which took place on Monday 7th February 2022 at the WRAPA headquarter office Abuja, had in attendance CITAD programme officer Yesmin Salako, technical officer Muhammad Yahya Bello and Usman Isah, Programme manager WRAPA Umma Ribi, Yemisi WRAPA project coordinator, WRAPA finance officer Shafiu and Mal. Muhammad. Yesmin shared CITAD activities which has been an ongoing activity in the FCT, which includes ICT training in the FCT rural communities ICT centre, GBV and child abuse sensitization, peer education training, community networks projects aimed at breaking the digital divide, social audit & FOI training for FCT rural communities activists, promotion of transparency and accountability in the governance and electoral process through engaging community youth in monitoring of electoral processes in their surroundings. WRAPA representatives were pleased to be informed on the in depth work CITAD is doing especially at the grass root level ensuring no one is left behind irrespective of gender, tribe, religion, class or age. WRAPA also expressed how it had engaged in several activities with CITAD in the past to include the summer digital institute, Inspiring Leadership or mentorship programmes (ILERIS) among others.

To this end, WRAPA showed the need to rekindle the partnership between CITAD and WRAPA for effective and a better impact in the societies where we work. WRAPA therefore requested for CITAD to send a portfolio of all our activities, so they could figure out where to key in.

 

 

DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION OF NIGERIA: A CALL TO THE GOVERNMENT

Text of Press Conference addressed by Y. Z. Yaú. the Executive Director of the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) at Treasurers Sites and Conference, Abuja on February 10, 2022

Last week, precisely on February 2, 2022, the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) convened a meeting of stakeholders in the telecommunication sector on the need for a National Strategy for community networks to address the various dimensions of the digital divide in the country. The meeting, which was attended by over 40 people including people from government agencies, representatives of private sector, development partners, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), professionals, civil society organizations, community based organizations piloting community networks and academics, had the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy Prof Isa Ali Pantami, represented by the Director-General of the National Identity Management Commission, Engr Abdulaziz Aliyu delivering the keynote address.

Participants at the meeting affirmed the viability of community networks as one of the innovative strategies that is being used by many countries across the world in addressing their connectivity gaps, especially where mobile network operators (MNOs) have found too unprofitable, either because the populations are spare, communities are poor or they are hard to reach. The understanding is that there is need for new business models of small, flexible and nibble providers to fill the gaps that bigger players (MNOs) cannot fill.

Participants also realised that unleashing the potentials of community networks to address connective gaps requires a robust policy on community networks. Unfortunately, as of now, Nigeria does not have such a policy.

In the meeting, CITAD recounted the efforts it had made so far in advocating for a national policy on community networks. These efforts include:

Meeting with the team of the Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC) to explore ways on how a community networks policy could be articulated for the country

Submission of a position paper to the NCC on its request, making the case for a policy regime and providing policy experiences from other countries

Follow-up communications to find out if the NCC had commenced the process of getting a policy for Nigeria

Meeting with the Hon Ministry for Communication and Digital Economy, robbing minds on the how the community networks sub-sector could be catalysed through policy making

Submission of a policy briefing notes to the Minister at his request, providing pathways for the development of the national community networks

Making further submission during the consultation processes for the policy on the 5G licensing

Meetings with a number of IT related agencies such as National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF), Galaxy Backbone, etc as part of an advocacy drive on the need for such a policy

Addressing a series of press conferences to drive the point that Nigeria needs a policy for community networks to address the digital divide

Participants, including the Representative of the Hon Minister agreed that it was urgent that Nigeria had its policy for community networks. In particular, the Representative of the Minister averred that if all that was needed to catalyse the emergence and growth of community networks in the country, then the matter was simple since the Minister for Communication and Digital Economy is well known for his proactiveness in articulating policies for the digital space in Nigeria.

We at CITAD acknowledge the various efforts that the Minister in particular has put in repositioning the country for a digital transformation. We note for the example that in the last couple of years, he has led in the following, among others:

The development and steady implementation of the Federal Government National Digital Economy Policy NS Strategy (NDEPS)

The implementation of the Strategic Roadmap and Action Plan (SRAP 2021-2024) by NITDA

The articulation of a new National Broadband Plan and Policy

Developed a vibrant digital ecosystem that supports Innovation Driven Enterprises (IDE) and Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in a way that engenders innovation

Provisioned robust digital platforms to support government digital services and drive the digital economy

We conclusion of the development of the National Start-up Bill which is being transmitted to the National Assembly whose key objective is to create laws that will support the growth of the tech start up ecosystem in the country.

All these policies, laws and initiatives are important digital transformation elements for the country. However, with the digital divide in the country, the good objectives of these policies and programmes will be difficult to achieve. In particular, a large number of people in rural areas and hard to reach communities will be left behind as the experience has shown that even when broadband is rolled out, economic and accessibility factors are key hindrance to their affordability in these communities. The initiatives have not, in a fundamental way addressed the issues of bridging the connectivity gaps in the over 114 underserved and unserved communities in the country. It is instructive that the number of unserved and underserved communities is the result of the pain taking work of another government agency, the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF). Community networks remain the tool to unleashing the creativity of citizens, mobilising their resources, skills and other endowments to meet their collective digital communication challenge by themselves without asking for government to fund such bridging efforts or waiting for MNOs who are reluctant to do so because what is left are the unprofitable leftovers.

It is in this connection and in furtherance of the voice of the stakeholders meeting, we would like to renew our call on the government to as a matter of urgency provide the country with a national policy on community networks. The advantages are too numerous that we should not give to farther procrastination.

In particular, we would like to:

Call on the Minister of Communication and Digital Economy to set up a mechanism for the development of a National Policy for Community Networks

Call on the NCC to develop guidelines and regulations for the operation of community networks in the country and to allow communities to access and use TV White Space (TVWS) for the purposes of setting up community networks

Enjoins the Galaxy Backbone PLC to provide communities with access to its backbone for them to use as their community networks getaways.

The USPF to support the upgrading of the many community digital centres they set up in the country to serve as nucleus of community networks for communities that desirous and passionate to set up such in their communities

NITDA to work with communities at grassroots level to drive digital literacy which is critical for the effective utilization of digital technology and which is the foundation upon which the digital transformation agenda of the country will rest.

Call on the private sector operators in the sector to as, their corporate social responsibility support communities building community networks.

Call on all other stakeholders, including political office holders to support communities to go digital as critical contribution to community development.

 

 

 

REPORT OF THE COMMUNITY LIBRARY LAUNCH IN PASSEPA COMMUNTY OF THE FCT.

Centre for Information Technology and Development and Library Aid Africa, with support from Action Aid launched an ICT centre and library in Pasepa community, Bwari Area council, FCT. The launch took place on Thursday 3rd February, 2022; the team paid a condolence visit to the palace in solidarity for dead of their community king.

The launch started with an introduction of staffs, members of the high table and community members. A welcome address was given by CITAD programme officer Yesmin Salako who appreciated and welcomed everyone to the launch of the library and ICT centre, she applauded the community members who took charge of the project and saw to the library set up being a reality, stating that all the vendors (carpenter, electrician, and artist) all came from the community, indicating that there is ownership of the project by the community. There was a goodwill message from Dr. Oluchi Iche Kalu from National Library of Nigeria (NLN), who commended the efforts of CITAD, AAN and LAA on setting up a library at a rural community, she explained that it is one of the goal of the National Library is to see that the art of reading is taken place at the grass root level. The president of Women Entrepreneurs Development Forum (WEDF); Hajiya Halima Zubairu Dambatta also delivered a good will message, the organization spoke on most of its humanitarian activities in the community, and were excited to see more projects going in the community, WEDF also promised to impact the community positively while working together with every development partner working to see to the development of the community.

Action Aid Director of programmes; Hajiya Suwaiba Muhammad Dankabo, delivered a lecture on Action Aid perspective of development. While delivering her lecture she said “The objective of the program is enhancing technological skills as well as breaking barriers to digital development. We want to see a situation whereby everyone in Nigeria has digital access and are able to connect to the world, irrespective of their location, sex, gender and status”. She further explained that the organization is partnering CITAD which is providing technical support for successful implementation of the project. CITAD was able to work with the community after our mobilization making sure people provide the space. In partnership, we brought in the technical equipment while CITAD is bringing in the technical support in terms of expertise and digital literacy and then we connected these people to a forum in New York where they see what is happening in the world and then they see how young people are mobilizing and then they are able to take their issues in the community and engage with their duty bearers.  And then they are also engaging in digital campaigning”.

The launch proceeded with a speech from the Community leader Alhaji Mohammed Pasepa who gave a community brief, involvement in the project and sustainability plans. Mohammed Pasepa said that the ICT centre which was established by CITAD has led to many development in the community as they plan to convert the centre to a school where people pay to learn how to operate the computer. He said the community members use the centre to apply for jobs, they print community works and also students planning to write JAMB can practice with the computers before proceeding to write the exam. He appreciated the set-up of the library while involving the community in the construction purpose, he also added that other students or children from neighbouring communities will benefit from the library.

To officially launch the library and ICT centre CITAD, AAN directors, representatives of the National Library, President WEDF, community leader and the children from the community proceeded for a ribbon cutting. Group photographs were taken, refreshments were served and gifts were received from AAN and WEDF by the community librarian Abubakar Ibraheem. 

The program came to an end with a vote of thanks delivered by CITAD assistant programmes officer Mubarak Ekute, he thanked everyone for gracing the event and making the day a memorable one. 

The media links are; https://www.blueprint.ng/citad-aan-launch-ict-centre-library-in-pasepa-community/           https://humanitywatch.ng/874-2/

REPORT OF CITAD ABUJA OFFICE VISITATION TO WAZOBIA FM 99.5 FM ABUJA ON 31st JANUARY 2021

Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD) is a  capacity-building civil Society organization whose activities cover research, advocacy, training, and publicity in all areas of ICT for development and good governance. It is in the light of the above that CITAD paid a courtesy visit to Wazobia Fm Abuja 99.5

The objective of the visit, is considering Wazobia FM Being a critical stakeholder in the FCT we deem it necessary to pay a courtesy visit to the Radio Station for familiarity, and building relationships as it patterns our activities and then possible collaboration for the betterment of our communities.

CITAD programme officer Yesmin Salako, expounded in details the activities of CITAD in Abuja particularly the FCT rural communities. The organisation program officer was delighted to know of CITAD advocacy on land grabbing issues in the FCT, and also it works around Gender Based Violence (GBV) and most importantly the Digital skills training at the grass root level. The discussion was fruitful  and the organisation hoped collaboration between the organisations.

CITAD staffs appreciate them and a group photograph was taken immediately after the meeting.

In attendance for the meeting was  Yesmin Salako, Mubarak Ekute, Usman Isah and Bashir Usman, Wazobia fm program manager Big Moh, and the communication director.

REPORT OF A MONTHLY WE-YOU PRO INFLUENCERS MEETING HELD ON 31st JANUARY, 2022 AT SARINA HOTELS AND SUITES, KANO

Centre For Information Technology And Development (C ITAD) organized a monthly We-You Pro Influencers’ meeting The meeting started with welcome remarks by Malam Isah Garba, Senior program Officer, CITAD Who represented by Executive Director Malam Y.Z Yau Where he thanks everyone for attending the meeting on behalf of CITAD Board, and the Executive Director
Malam Isah gave the objectives of the meeting, as:
To formally introduce the ambassadors/ Influencers and get them know each other and be familiarized with each other.
To introduce the project, its objectives to the influencers
To design and agree of a work plan for the ambassadors/influencers
To agree on the activities and methodology of conducting their activities in their various localities.

To share the Demand charter with the ambassadors
Then John Otaro give brief explanation of the project and the new slogan for the campaign for the inclusion of Women and Youth in party leadership and elected positions nin Kano state. The new slogan is
Hope, Action, Progress, which has the symbol of traffic light as its logo and urge that hence the campaign will be identified with these symbols. the slogan and the logo According to John the project is aimed at contributing to an inclusive and responsive democratic process and outcomes through citizens’ led actions towards 2023 general elections in Nigeria. The duration:the campaign is a build up to the 2023 elections. Strategic Objectives
To enhance peoples’ power in democratic and inclusive governance.
To Enhance democratic choices for citizens.
To mobilize a critical mass of young people and women leading disruptive campaigns towards translating citizens’ demands into policy actions in Kano State.
To ensure that Citizens’ capacity is strengthened to demand accountability
to enhance capacity of government and its institutions for gender responsive service delivery to strengthen the capacities of young people and women on campaign strategies, policy, and influencing towards taking leadership positions to drive positive change
To engender an inclusive decision-making political process that reflects the priorities of the young people and women in kano state.
PROJECT SCOPE: The project will be working in the following Local government areas in kano including :including Bichi, Dala, Fagge, Gwale, Kano Municipal, Nassarawa, Sumaila, Tarauni.
During the meeting the Youth and women political charter of demand was shared to the influencers which each gave his personal and organizational commitment to amplify the demand of the women and youth and their messages towards 2023 general elections.
The demand and messages are:
We collectively agreed and came up with a charter of demand that will remove political blockages for the effective participation of youth and women in politics in Kano State. Therefore, we are submitting this charter which contains the demands of youth and women in Kano State ahead of the 2023 general elections.
Citizens demand at least the allocation of 35% of all positions in political party leadership and elective positions to youth and women.
Political Parties should subsidize /offer free forms for youth and women aspirants respectively
Media houses should support youth and Women aspirants and contestants in amplifying their manifestations in their programmes.
Media houses should support youth and Women aspirants and contestants in amplifying their manifestations in their programmes.
Communities and stakeholders should find ways to identify credible youth and women in their communities and support them to aspire as candidates.
We are soliciting the support of Religious leaders to lend their voice and influence in support of youth and women candidature through their sermons and preaching, especially come out with the roles youth and women played in the history of religions and societal development
Media, Civil Society Organizations and community Based Organizations should sensitize the public on the need for women and youth participation in politics
Security agencies should stick to the rules of engagements and non partisanship in all their engagements with political parties and politicians
Community Influencers should support young and female politicians to gain positions in political parties and win elective positions
Religious and Traditional leaders should engage in voter education to help in providing safer political space that will encourage youth and women participations
Business communities and individuals should support credible candidates among youth and women, lacking the financial capabilities to contest elections

MESSAGES
Both in the socio-political and economic sectors, women and youth in Kano State are not well represented: therefore, women and young aspirants need to be supported by all.
Every decision making that does not have women and youth representation is not inclusive: stakeholders should support women and youth for inclusive decision making
As gender based violence almost becomes a norm, women and youth need to be part of the decision making process to raise and support decisions that will fight the menace better
Inclusion of youth and women in to key political and elected positions means inclusion of about 61% of the population into the process, support that for a better and inclusive society
The high number of out of school children in Kano can easily be mitigated if youth and women are involved
There is nothing for us without us, include youth and women into leadership positions to get their buy in and contributions in all policies and decisions to be taken on their behalf.
The next meeting is scheduled to hold in the third week of February 2022.