A’Ibom CSOs forum inaugurates interim leadership, reaffirms reform agenda

Ememobong Okon

The Akwa Ibom Civil Society Organisations Forum has constituted an interim executive committee to pilot its affairs for the next six months, with a renewed commitment to strengthening governance, inclusiveness, and accountability in the state’s civic space.

The decision was reached at a special meeting of members held on Sunday, August 24, following a resolution by the Board of Trustees of the Guild of Community Development Advocates in Akwa Ibom State (AKGCODA), which is the registered legal name of the forum.

The new Interim Executive Committee (EXCO), is chaired by development policy expert and Executive Director of Policy Alert, Tijah Bolton-Akpan.

Other members include Emem Okon of Hope for Coastal Women Empowerment Initiative – Programmes/Public Affairs Advisor.

Mrs. Emem Joseph Ekong of Women United for Economic Empowerment (WUEE) – Treasurer/Financial Advisor.

Kingsley Atang of Youth Alive Foundation (YAF Africa) – Compliance Advisor.

Elkanah Oluyori of Clement Isong Foundation – Secretary.

Meanwhile, Bolton-Akpan and Emem Nkereuwem of Arts and Skills Development Initiative had earlier been returned as interim Board Chair and Board Secretary, respectively.

Speaking shortly after the inauguration, Bolton-Akpan thanked members of the Forum for the confidence reposed in him and assured that the interim leadership would operate with “dedication, integrity, and inclusivity.”

He noted that civil society in Akwa Ibom faces a dual responsibility—ensuring internal accountability among its own members while continuing to hold government and other stakeholders accountable for inclusive and sustainable development.

 “We will work together to strengthen the Forum’s governance systems and safeguard the participation of every member organisation in driving reforms, while forging a united front to enhance our visibility, build trust, and reposition our Forum as a respected and effective voice for the Third Sector in Akwa Ibom State,” he said.

The forum, which brings together over 120 organisations including NGOs, CSOs, CBOs, and faith-based groups, was established in 2008 and registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in 2014.

It is recognised as part of a national network of sub-national CSO coalitions operating across 35 states and the Federal Capital Territory.