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By Saidu Gidado Idris, MNIM
Effective governance relies on a simple principle: policy must connect with the people it is designed to serve. Without an active bridge between decision-makers and local communities, even the best government initiatives risk falling short of their potential.
This principle was front and center during a recent delegation visit led by Malam Yusuf Muhammad Gidado Idris, North-West Contact & Mobilization Coordinator for the City Boy Movement, to Major General Abdulmalik Jibrin (Rtd.), Secretary of the Civil Defence, Correctional, Fire and Immigration Services Board (CDCFIB).
The engagement highlighted how high-level federal programs directly intersect with the daily aspirations of young Nigerians. A major focal point was youth employment—specifically following the federal authorization to recruit 30,150 personnel into the nation’s paramilitary services. For young citizens in the North-West, awareness and fair access to these positions represent viable paths toward social mobility and national service.
Similarly, discussions around the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND)which has now exceeded ₦303 billion in student disbursements—underscore a transformative approach to tertiary education. By eliminating financial barriers, NELFUND ensures that young talent across all economic backgrounds can remain in school and contribute meaningfully to national development.
Bridging governance and the public requires continuous dialogue. Leaders like Major General Jibrin bring invaluable administrative experience to the table, while grassroots coordinators like Malam Yusuf ensure that local realities feed back into institutional decision-making.
When leadership connects directly with youth, opportunities multiply, public trust is built, and national progress becomes a shared commitment rather than a distant goal.
Saidu Gidado Idris, MNIM, is a retired public administrator, management consultant, and public affairs analyst)
