Civil Society in Gombe Adopts Tougher Self-Regulation Framework

Civil Society in Gombe Adopts Tougher Self-Regulation Framework

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

The Chairman of the Gombe Network of Civil Society (GONET) Amb. Ibrahim Yusuf, has urged member organisations to embrace stronger internal accountability systems, describing civil society self-regulation as critical to sustainable development and public trust.

Speaking at a two-day step-down capacity building training on CSO self-regulation and minimum standards of operations in Gombe on Thursday.

Amb. Yusuf explained that it is a long-standing tradition within the GONET for any member who attends an external training to return and cascade the knowledge to others who could not participate.

He noted that this particular training was unique because it focused on Civil Society Self-Regulation and assessed the level of compliance among organisations.

“Whenever a member organisation attends a training outside, it is mandatory to step it down for others. That is how we build collective strength. But this one is exceptional because it deals with self-regulation and evaluating how compliant we are as organisations,” he said.

Amb. Yusuf described civil society organisations as the “fourth tier of development,” stressing that they must put their internal structures in order and comply with all relevant government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

According to him, improved compliance and transparency will not only strengthen institutional credibility but also boost confidence among partners and stakeholders.

“When we align with regulatory frameworks and maintain standards, it gives us the courage and legitimacy to collaborate effectively with government institutions and other civil structures,” he added.

He called on all member organisations within the Network to return to their respective offices and implement lessons learned from the training.

He also encouraged peer support and stronger collaboration among civil society groups to ensure the objectives of the self-regulation process are achieved.

Highlights from the presentation during the training emphasised the need for clear governance policies, financial transparency, regular reporting, ethical leadership, and adherence to operational standards. Participants were also guided on compliance benchmarks and practical tools for assessing organisational performance.

The training forms part of ongoing efforts by the Gombe State Civil Society Network to promote accountability, professionalism, and sustainable impact within the civil society space.

Some of the member who participate aficiated the gesture and asure for implamenting the self-regulation and standards operation in their organisation.