The idea of Town Hall Meeting was conceived as part of effort by the Federal Ministry of information and Culture to bridge the communication gap between the Government and the citizenry and keep them better informed of policies and programmes of the Federal Government. The meeting has been taken to other venues where crucial issues have been discussed and critical feedback stimulated for inclusive governance.
The take-off was deliberately pr…ogrammed to coincide with the first year anniversary of the Buhari Administration; and to provide a platform for mutual understanding and interaction among stakeholders and to re-assure Nigerians, some of whom are already losing faith in the government.
The Ilorin edition which was held at Banquet Hall, Government House, Ilorin, Kwara State on 7th February, 2017, had in attendance about 1000 participants. In attendance were the Chief host, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, the Moderator of the Event, Minister of Information and culture; Alh. Lai Mohammed, Minister of Transportation; Hon. Rotimi C. Ameachi, Minister of Health; Prof. Issac Adewole, Minister of Water Resources; Engr. Suleiman Adamu, Minister of Mines and Steel; Abubakar Bawa Bwari, Minister of State, Budget and Planning; Hajia Zainab Ahmed, Minister of State Trade and Investment; Hajia Aisha Abubakar. Notable First Class Traditional Rulers from Niger, Kogi and Kwara State were also present.
The Meeting started with the welcome address of the Executive Governor of Kwara State Alh. AbdulFatah Ahmed, He appreciated the Federal Government for the programme which is an avenue to render good stewardship and strengthen democracy. He also charged the Federal Government to commence implementation and policy framework for capital projects.
The Moderator Hon. Minister of Information and Culture gave his opening speech and commended the composition of the gathering which he said is one of the best Town Hall Meetings, The panelists (Honourable Ministers) gave an overview of what they have done so far within the context of “CHANGE Mantra”.
Questions were thrown to concerned Ministers, and they all answered satisfactory, The programme was aired live on the largest Television network in Africa, NTA and other sister stations like FRCN, VON with simultaneous transmission of SMS of proceedings on social media.
Other dignitaries in attendance include; Deputy Speakers Kwara, Kogi and Niger States House of Assembly, Secretary to Kwara, Kogi and Niger state Government, , Director General of NOA, Dr. Garba Abari, Director General of NBC, Alh. Modibbo Kawu, Traditional Rulers from host State Kwara, Kogi and Niger and Delegates from Kogi and Niger States.