By: Sakina Ahmed
The United Nations Children’s Fund UNICEF has organized a two-day meeting on social behavioral change SBC and accountability to affected populations with stakeholders in Bauchi.
The meeting aimed to strengthen community involvement in decision-making regarding interventions.
Participants included representatives from concerned agencies, CEOs, and media professionals who play a vital role in influencing public attitudes through SBC campaigns.
Lead facilitator Mr. Eki George emphasized the importance of people-oriented interventions while noting that individuals’ preferences may differ from what governments and donors assume people need.
George highlighted the necessity of involving communities in the decision-making process for interventions that affect them.
In light of the U.S. backing out of sending aid to Nigeria, he urged stakeholders to consider asset-based community-driven development to uplift living standards.
Earlier, facilitator Mrs. Amina Bala guided participants through a session focused on accountability to affected populations.
She emphasized the need to strengthen existing feedback mechanisms to optimize results.
Participants from Adamawa, Gombe, and Bauchi expressed optimism about redoubling their efforts in problem-solving rather than merely raising awareness through SBC initiatives.
