By Sodiq Adelakun
The Ondo State Government is set to host a major regional dialogue this week as the Federal Government, in collaboration with the Development Agenda for Western Nigeria (DAWN) Commission and Afenifere, convenes the South-West Citizen-Government Engagement Summit in Akure.
The two-day event, scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday, October 29–30, 2025, will hold at the International Conference Centre (The Dome) in Akure. It is themed “Strengthening Democracy Through Dialogue: Assessing Progress, Charting the Future.”
The summit aims to provide a platform for citizens and government to engage in meaningful dialogue on governance, development, and democratic consolidation in the South-West region.
This was contained in a statement signed by Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan for the Local Organising Committee.
The statement reads partly: “The summit aims to provide a credible platform for citizens and government to engage in constructive dialogue on key issues affecting the South-West region. It will address challenges and opportunities within our shared democratic space.
“According to the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, all necessary arrangements have been concluded to host delegates from the six states of the South-West. Ondo State is ready to welcome all participants.
“The event will feature six thematic sessions, including Fiscal Reforms and National Planning, Economic Development and Job Creation, Social Services and Social Development, Infrastructure and Transportation, Human Capital Development, and Security and Governance.
“The summit will serve as a rallying point for strengthening citizen participation, deepening democratic accountability, and promoting unity among stakeholders in the region.”
According to the organisers, the two-day engagement will bring together governors, ministers, federal legislators, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, youth groups, women leaders, and key private sector actors from across the South-West.
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, will serve as Chief Host, while the discussions are expected to produce actionable outcomes that promote inclusive development and regional cooperation.
The event will also explore strategic reforms across the region’s economic, social, and governance frameworks, with emphasis on improving citizen trust in public institutions.
