- As Federal Commissioner Reaffirms Commitment to Transparency, Unveils Plan for Dedicated CSO Desk Office
Over 50 Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) from across Nigeria on Thursday converged at the headquarters of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI), Abuja, on a high-level courtesy visit to Federal Commissioner and Chief Executive Officer, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed.
The powerful delegation was jointly led by Comrade Splendour Agbonkpolor, Chairman of the CSO Budget Implementation, Assessment, Monitoring and Evaluation Committee (CBIAMEC), and Ogakwu Dominic, President of the Civil Society Groups for Good Governance (CSGGG), alongside leaders of several civil society organizations in Nigeria.
Welcoming the delegation, Aliyu Tijani Ahmed commended the critical role of CSOs in strengthening democracy, accountability, and policy implementation. He emphasized that under his stewardship, the NCFRMI has embraced an open-door policy designed to encourage dialogue, inclusivity, and collaboration in the humanitarian sector.
The Commissioner highlighted some of the Commission’s notable achievements, particularly in states such as Nasarawa, Benue, amongst others, where thousands of displaced persons, migrants, and asylum seekers have benefited from timely relief interventions, shelter support, and empowerment initiatives.
“Our mission is not just to provide immediate relief but to restore dignity, build resilience, and ensure long-term rehabilitation for our displaced brothers and sisters. We are determined to leave no one behind,” Ahmed declared.
Also in a major step to deepen transparency, the Federal Commissioner agreed to suggestions by announcing plans to establish a dedicated CSO Desk Office within the Commission. According to him, the new desk will serve as a direct liaison point with civil society groups, ensuring smooth collaboration, stronger oversight, and due diligence in all NCFRMI activities.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Comrade Splendour Agbonkpolor hailed the Commissioner’s performance, describing the visit as “one of a kind.” He noted that Aliyu Tijani Ahmed has set a new benchmark for leadership in public service.
“As a performing public steward, you have earned the confidence of civil society. The CSOs present here today, and those across the wider coalition, will continue to support and rally around you to ensure that the Commission achieves its mandate,” Agbonkpolor stated.
Corroborating his remarks, Ogakwu Dominic lauded Ahmed for his humility, responsiveness, and openness to partnership. He stressed that the collaboration between the Commission and CSOs would set a new standard for humanitarian governance in Nigeria.
The visit not only underscored the growing synergy between government and civil society but also signaled a new chapter of accountability, inclusivity, and partnership in addressing Nigeria’s displacement and migration challenges.