CDD International Governing Council meets, adds six to membership and names new Chair
CDD International Governing Council meets, adds six to membership and names new Chair
[Abuja, Nigeria] - The Centre for Democracy and Development West Africa (CDD-West Africa), an independent, not-for-profit, research, advocacy, and capacity building organization convened a meeting of its International Governing Council on 8-9 March 2024. This year's gathering served to acknowledge the successes of the preceding year while also heralding a significant juncture with the appointment of new members to the Board of Trustees.
The meeting convened distinguished scholars and civic leaders representing diverse fields throughout West Africa. This platform facilitated rigorous discussions on pertinent regional challenges, fostering strategic dialogues aimed at retooling CDD to better respond to contemporary challenges pertaining to democratic governance, transparency, and sustainable development. Alongside the session, members of the IGC also engaged with staff, expressing gratitude for the organization's efforts over the past year and affirming their commitment to extending further support to ongoing endeavours.
In accordance with CDD's commitment to cultivating leadership and expertise in the region, the Board of Trustees has appointed six outstanding individuals to the Governing Council. These individuals possess extensive experience and a steadfast dedication to CDD's mission. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will enhance the quality of board deliberations and steer CDD's strategic trajectory in the future.
The newly elected members of the International Governing Council are:
- Comrade John Odah, Executive Secretary of the Organisation of Trade Unions of West Africa (OTUWA)
- Dayo Olaide, Segment Lead, International Foundations, World Vision Canada
- Sonny Onyegbula, Human Rights advisor with the United Nations
- Hauwa Biu, Professor of Curriculum and Instruction at the University of Maiduguri
- Moussa Tchangari Aissami Tata, Secretary-General of Alternative Espaces Citoyens, Niger
- Osagie Obayuwana, President of the Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, Nigeria
Their commitment to democratic principles, governance, and development closely aligns with CDD's mission, rendering them invaluable assets to the organization's leadership cadre. Additionally, the meeting appointed John Odah as the new chair of the IGC, succeeding Professor Dzodzi Tsikata, who had served in an interim capacity since October 2023. Other esteemed members of the IGC include Dr. Otive Igbuzor as Treasurer, alongside Professor Ibrahim Abdullah, Professor Boubacar N’diaye, and Jeanette Akua Eno. Also in attendance were members of CDD’s interim management team, including CDD’s Acting Director, Dr. Sa’eed Husaini, as well as Esther Yusuf, Head of Administration and Adebola Ogunsanmi, interim Head of Finance appointed to oversee the day-to-day operations of the organization amidst its ongoing leadership transition.
Looking towards the future, CDD maintains a resolute dedication to advancing democratic principles, nurturing civic participation, and catalysing constructive transformations throughout West Africa. With the steadfast support of the International Governing Council, as well as CDD's devoted staff and partners, we are poised to persistently pursue these objectives, instilling optimism for a prosperous and inclusive future across the region.
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