CATYCOI empowers youths on governance, civic rights in Abia
By Our Correspondent
Catch Them Young Community Initiative (CATYCOI), has equipped youths in Abia State with knowledge and tools to promote civic engagement and good governance.
The Youth Civic Education and Governance Workshop, held in Umuahia, on February 18, 2026, aimed to educate youths on their civic rights and responsibilities, improve access to government services, and foster accountability in governance.
During his presentation on “Understanding Civic Rights”, Executive Director of CATYCOI, Comrade Nonso Orakwe, elucidated the concept as constitutionally enshrined freedoms that empower citizens to participate in governance. He illustrated this with examples such as the right to vote, freedom of assembly, and right to fair hearing, underscoring their significance in promoting democratic values, shielding citizens from power abuse, and catalyzing national progress.
Other sessions focused on accessibility to government facilities and services, where participants identified key services, barriers, and proposed strategies for improvement. Emmanuel Ogbu, another facilitator, highlighted physical, economic, social, and administrative barriers to accessing services, and suggested measures to address them.
The workshop also covered advocacy for accountability of local government officials, community engagement, and partnerships. Participants engaged in role-play activities to practice holding officials accountable and discussed ways to strengthen governance and service delivery.
The event emphasized collaboration among youth leaders, government officials, and community members to promote civic rights and improve governance.
The workshop marked a significant step towards empowering Abia youths to demand accountability and participate in governance processes, with plans for continued advocacy and community-led initiatives underway.
