Federal Government of Nigeria is set to launch a National Database of Volunteers.
Gatekeepers News reports that the Nigerian National Volunteer Services Department is set to launch a National Database of Volunteers, groups, corporate and the available volunteer programmes in the country.
The Permanent Secretary, Political and Economic Affairs Office, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), Andrew David Adejo disclosed this at the 2021 International Volunteer Day (IVD) celebration at the OSFG Conference Hall, Shehu Shagari Building, Three Arms Zone, Abuja.
He said, “Distinguished partners, Ladies and Gentlemen, the task before us is to ensure that volunteerism is recognized as a viable option to contribute to the progress of the society for our common future.
“However, it is not only enough to recognize volunteerism but also the contributions of volunteers should be recognized through various ways such as award, certificate, tax rebate, etc. More practically, volunteerism should be supported through a reward system which include timely payment of allowances/stipends, waiving payment of duties on materials/equipment meant for volunteering programmes, strengthening of volunteers institutions to provide effective management of volunteerism for development.
”Volunteers at work should not only be adequately taken care of but also to protect their rights, privileges, lives and ensure their service duration are recognized and insured.
“Therefore, I urge all hands to be on deck to build a formidable volunteer spirit and culture so as to harness the potentials inherent in volunteerism and work towards building a better future for the generations to come.
“A robust volunteering activities in all sectors has the capacity to provide needed changes and common gain presently and for the future generation.
“Creating workable partnerships and collaborative engagement has been found effective in encouraging and using volunteerism in some development initiatives strides in Skill Acquisition/Employment, Education, Health, Agriculture, Security, Social/Humanitarian activities, Adhoc activities, emergencies and in realization of International Development Goals and programmes.
“I am happy to inform you that Government is working towards efficient management of volunteerism in order to take its space in socio-economic development of the country.
“In this wise, the Nigerian National Volunteer Services Department shall soon launch a National Database of Volunteers, groups, corporate and importantly the available volunteer programmes in the country.
“I must not fail to thank the Development Par tners namely the United . Nations Volunteer Programme (UNV) in Nigeria, Voluntary Service Overseas (VSO) Nigeri Organization a Government Institutions/Agencies s (NGOs) , and NonGovernment al for their collaborative role in the development of Volunteerism in Nigeria.
“It is our expectations that the Press Community will play their expected role in publicizing the efforts of the Federal Government in developing Volunteerism as a critical tool for National Development the space for partic ipation in Volunteerism.”
