State governments in Edo and Ekiti States have taken steps to address long-standing infrastructure challenges following citizen complaints aired during a radio programme facilitated by Accountability Lab (AL) Nigeria.
Development Diaries reports that AL Nigeria launched a radio show to bridge the gap between citizens and the government, providing a platform for community members to voice their concerns and engage relevant stakeholders.
The programme, designed to strengthen citizen engagement and improve public service delivery, has emerged as a powerful tool for amplifying community voices and pressuring governments to respond.
In Edo State, listeners used the radio platform to draw attention to deteriorating primary healthcare facilities, lack of essential medical supplies, and absentee health workers.
According to media reports, communities across the state have been grappling with dilapidated public healthcare facilities, lack of essential drugs, and absentee health workers.
The outcry from the radio programme, especially during an episode that focused on health procurement, exposed troubling irregularities and service gaps that have persisted in many communities.
‘We’ve always felt ignored when it comes to community infrastructure, but the radio programme gave us a platform to speak and be heard.
‘Now, the government is acting and it shows that change is possible’, a listener said on air.
The concerns aired prompted the Edo State government to commit to reforms.
Plans are now underway to upgrade healthcare centres, ensure a regular supply of essential medicines, and tighten oversight on procurement to curb leakages and mismanagement.
A similar success story unfolded in Ekiti State. During a segment of the radio programme focused on public procurement, residents raised concerns about persistent electricity issues, particularly in the Housing Road area.
Deborah, a long-time resident, shared her frustrations on-air.
‘We’ve suffered power outages for too long. It has affected our businesses and everyday life’.
Moved by the public outcry, the state government initiated a transformer installation project to address the power shortfall in the affected area.
The intervention has been widely welcomed by residents, who credit the radio programme for bringing government attention to their plight.
AL Nigeria’s approach to supporting citizens to understand procurement processes and demand improved service delivery has proven effective, because citizens are now more informed, vocal, and active in holding the government accountable.
Through its innovative approach, AL Nigeria is supporting citizens to understand procurement processes and empowering citizens to participate in governance and demand better service delivery.
The radio programme, backed by the ‘AI in Open Contracting’ platform, continues to serve as a vital link between citizens and decision-makers.
With plans for continued broadcasts and community engagement, AL Nigeria is reinforcing a vital message, that when citizens speak, government should listen and act.
