Celebrating Success: A Recap of the ACT Program Closure Event.

In the heart of Rivers State, Nigeria, on the 19th of March 2024, something remarkable happened. The Agents for Citizen-driven Transformation (ACT) Program Closure took place, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of extraordinary! Hosted by the vibrant Talklove Africa Foundation (TAF), the event brought together a constellation of change-makers, from the Executive Director and her passionate team to representatives from various sectors including government, donors, and civil society organizations (CSOs).

Funded by the esteemed European Union, the ACT Programme has been a beacon of hope for sustainable development in Nigeria. Over the course of five impactful years, from 2019 to 2024, it worked tirelessly to: strengthened the system of CSOs, networks and coalitions to improve their internal, external and programmatic capabilities; provided a platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue for an improved, effective and inclusive regulatory environment for the operation of CSOs in Nigeria.

The closure event was not merely a conclusion but a celebration of achievements and a platform for future collaborations. It aimed to spotlight the transformative journey of the ACT program, showcasing its success stories and paving the way for continued partnerships in the realm of development.

The day unfolded with an array of inspiring activities. Special remarks from the Executive Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Sim Fubara, represented by Barrister Ishmael of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism set the tone for the event, emphasizing the importance of collective action in driving positive change. Goodwill messages echoed through the venue, with commissioners from various government ministries extending their support and appreciation for the program's impact on key sectors such as agriculture, education, and health. Donor representatives also expressed their commitment to sustaining the momentum of progress.

However, the true essence of the event lay in the testimonies shared by those directly touched by the program. Consortium leads, individual grantees, and community beneficiaries took the stage, sharing their personal experiences and the tangible outcomes of their involvement with the ACT Programme. Speaking about the impact of the Agents for Citizen Driven Transformation (ACT) program on organization Talklove Africa Foundation, the Executive Director, Mrs. Cynthia Obinwanne, emphasize her team’s immense gratitude to the ACT program of the British Council Nigeria funded by European Union in Nigeria, highlighting that their support has been truly transformative, not only for the organization but also for fellow ACT partners.

A thought-provoking panel session delved into the future of CSO collaboration in Rivers State, exploring ways to enhance partnerships with donors, government agencies, and the media for the greater good of the community.

As the event drew to a close, a resounding call to action reverberated throughout the room. Participants pledged their commitment to sustaining the results and impact of the ACT Programme, ensuring that its legacy would endure long into the future. And amidst this sea of dedication and enthusiasm, Talklove Africa Foundation stood tall, honored for its unwavering contribution to the program's success. As one of the esteemed ACT CSO partners, TAF received a well-deserved Certificate of Recognition, a testament to its relentless pursuit of positive change.

In the end, the ACT Program Closure was not just a conclusion but a new beginning—a testament to the power of collaboration, the resilience of the human spirit, and the unwavering belief that together, we can shape a brighter tomorrow.