Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Gombe State have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening coordination, communication and collaboration to enhance service delivery and accountability across communities.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the resolution was reached during a review meeting organised by the Kishimi Shelter and Care Foundation at the Savannah Civic Centre, Investment Quarters, Gombe.
The project is funded by the Global Fund and the National AIDS and STIs Control Programme (NASCP), and implemented by the Johns Hopkins Program for International Education in Gynecology and Obstetrics (Jhpiego) in partnership with the Kishimi Shelter and Care Foundation.
The meeting brought together representatives of various CSOs, media organisations and social media influencers to assess challenges affecting community-based interventions and humanitarian activities in the state, and to explore strategies for improving their impact.
Participants deliberated on issues relating to information sharing among organisations, strengthening referral systems between healthcare facilities and community structures, and addressing gaps hindering effective programme implementation.
They also discussed practical measures aimed at improving operational efficiency, promoting teamwork, enhancing accountability and supporting joint initiatives for sustainable community development.
Stakeholders at the meeting stressed the importance of unity, regular engagement and collective action in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations across the state.
Speaking with journalists after the meeting, the Executive Director of Dandalin Matasa Initiative for Rapid Development and Chairman of the Association of NGOs in Gombe State, Ambassador Bachama Yusuf, called on the government to strengthen manpower in the health sector.
“We need more investment in human resources for health to ensure that healthcare services reach communities effectively. Adequate manpower remains critical to improving health outcomes across the state,” he said.
Yusuf also urged residents to take advantage of the free healthcare services provided by the government.
“People should prioritise their health and make use of the free healthcare services available. Early access to healthcare can prevent many avoidable complications,” he added.
Also speaking, the Monitoring and Evaluation Officer of the Kishimi Shelter and Care Foundation, Philip Joshua, expressed confidence that sustained collaboration among civil society organisations would improve advocacy and service delivery.
“This engagement has provided an opportunity for organisations to share experiences, identify challenges and strengthen partnerships. Continued collaboration will enhance coordination and amplify our advocacy efforts for the benefit of communities in Gombe State,” Joshua said.
The meeting concluded with participants pledging to deepen cooperation and strengthen networks to improve the effectiveness of humanitarian and development interventions across the state.
