In a transformative effort to promote good governance and amplify women’s role in accountability, the Borno Coalition for Democracy and Progress (BOCODEP), with support from the MacArthur Foundation, has launched a three-day Capacity Building Workshop for women stakeholders in Yobe State, centered on anti-corruption and transparency.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Women’s Voices for Transparency and Accountability,” the workshop commenced at J. Sarham Hall, Sand Dunes Hotels, Damaturu, and will run from June 17 to June 19, 2025. The event is specifically designed to equip women leaders with practical skills, strategies, and tools to detect, challenge, and prevent corruption within their communities and institutions.
In his opening remarks, Professor Nuhu Diraso Gapsiso, resource person of the event and a respected development advocate, emphasized the pivotal role women play in upholding integrity in society.
“This gathering is not just a workshop; it is a strategic leap forward. Empowering women to lead in promoting transparency and demanding accountability is essential for meaningful change in our institutions and communities,” he stated.
The workshop aims to, deepen understanding of the landscape of corruption and its gendered impacts, Equip women with practical tools and advocacy strategies, Foster collective action through community engagement and risk mapping, Launch a women-led accountability and mentorship network for sustained grassroots reform.
Women from across Yobe State, including civil society groups, government agencies, grassroots movements, and media organizations, are participating in interactive and action-oriented sessions. Topics explored include financial irregularities in local governance, whistleblowing mechanisms, transparency in public procurement, and citizen oversight.
The workshop will culminate in the launch of the Yobe Women Anti-Corruption Network, a coalition committed to tracking public service delivery, advocating for policy reforms, and supporting peer-to-peer mentorship among women leaders.
Facilitators concluded the opening day with a rousing call to action, urging participants to take ownership of the tools shared and become vocal champions of integrity in their various communities.
As Yobe continues its journey of reconstruction and democratic strengthening, initiatives like this represent a bold and inclusive step forward, placing women not only at the center of change but in the driver’s seat of Yobe’s anti-corruption movement.
