By David Odama

Nasarawa state government has expressed concern over the unwholesome practices and activities of Non-Governmental Organizations in the state warning against sharp practices in their operations.

In order to regulate, supervise and monitors the activities of the Organizations, the state government has set up mechanisms platform to regulate, stem the access of most of the organizations in the state.

This, the government said it would be an offence for any NGO to operate in the state without being identified, register under one platform for easy monitoring and regulation in accordance with the extant law of the state.

Addressing Journalists ahead of this year’s International NGOs day, state Commissioner of Humanitarian, Social Services and Non-Governmental Organisations, Margret Elayo, explained that the move was in response to the unwholesome practices and activities of the NGOs operating in Nasarawa.

According to the Commissioner, the state government under  the ministry has  created  a platform to checkmate and ensure effective monitoring and supervision of all the NGOs in the state.

“When I assumed office as commissioner, the first thing we did as a ministry was to create a platform to enable us obtain data, information as well  have the records and numbers of NGOs in the state.

“This is to ensure that we do not have a duplication where two or three NGOs carry out out  the same function  where  other departments  will be  lacking.

“If you are not on that platform then you are not NGO in Nasarawa State. As a ministry, we will not accommodate or  condone activities of any NGO that is not in the  platform”, the commissioner declared.

She said that the ministry  was collaborating  with international bodies who were willing to donate funds to serious NGOs working in the state.

“There’s no point been in the state when getting funds either locally, nationally or internationally and all you do is to get an apartment, enjoy yourself and take pictures of  our people and said you have contributed immensely, we will not take that,” she warned.

 Elayo who however, appreciated the role of NGOs, noted  that they have been instrumental  to the enhancement of  the lives of vulnerable people of Nasarawa state, providing essential supports to meet their basic needs.

“NGOS  in other countries are heroes, working to uplift marginalized communities, protect the environment, and advocate for human rights. The issue is different in our local communities.

“As we celebrate international NGO Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to collaborate with  NGOs and the media, they are not adversaries but partners on a shared journey towards progress,” declared.

Elayo then called on stakeholders to join hands in celebrating the  efforts of NGOs, as state anticipate further progress and the implementation of more vibrant, people-oriented projects that align with the goals SDGs.

“The commitment of the Nasarawa State Government to NGOS remains steadfast and poised to grow stronger through enhanced partnerships and increased support for NGOs Humanitarian Social Services,” she said