Strengthening Transparency: Stakeholders Gather In Abuja To Chart A New Path For FOI Act Reform
In an era where access to information is pivotal to democratic governance, key stakeholders gathered in Abuja for a technical session aimed at revisiting and refining the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act through proposed amendments.
The session, organised by the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria, under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase II (EU-SDGN II) brought together about 30 participants from the media, civil society, legal profession, and government institutions.
Their shared goal was to develop a strong position paper reflecting the collective voices and recommendations for a more effective FOI reporting and compliance system.
The meeting, held in partnership with PLAC and YIAGA Africa, is part of ongoing efforts to safeguard and strengthen Nigeria’s FOI regime.
Mr Edet Ojo, Executive Director of Media Rights Agenda, served as the lead resource person, guiding robust conversations around the gaps, technical, legal, and policy frameworks that underpin the current FOI Amendment Bill.
In his welcome speech, the Executive Director of IPC, Lanre Arogundade, saìd that though access to information is a critical component of democratic governance and transparency, the enforcement and application of the FOI Act remain weak, hindered by systemic non-compliance and legal bottlenecks despite the Act being a cornerstone of democratic ideals, while the Executive Director of the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), Dr. Akin Akingbulu, believes that many public institutions act as though the law is a favour they can withhold, rather than a duty they are bound to fulfil.
Nkiru Uzodi of the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC), emphasised the importance of preserving the spirit of the FOI Act.
Participants critically examined the proposed changes to the FOI Act, highlighting gaps, potential improvements, and areas requiring clearer compliance structures.
The atmosphere was one of urgency and collaboration, as discussions centred on ensuring that the Act not only upholds transparency but also becomes more enforceable and impactful.
The session reinforced the importance of civil engagement in legislative reform processes and re-echoed the need for a stronger, rights-based information access culture in Nigeria.
As the Position Paper from the meeting takes shape, it is expected to influence advocacy efforts and legislative engagement towards a more robust FOI law that serves citizens, promotes transparency, and fosters accountability.
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