By Salisu Babangida
19 Development Communication Officers (DCOs) from RAAMP states have completed a three-days training on Citizens Engagement and the Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) held at Metropolitan hotel, Calabar.
Our correspondent reports that , the training space served as a platform for the sharing ideas, lived experiences, and renewed responsibilities in advancing rural development.
The participants drawn from various parts of Nigeria were described as the bridge between RAAMP and local communities, they were reminded of their vital role in promoting the project and strengthening trust within the people.
The course organizers stressed that, the officers have been equipped to build the culture of documentation, feedback, and consistent follow-up to enhance accountability.
Further emphasizing that, their newly acquired skills would help in reducing bureaucratic bottlenecks for timely reporting, while encouraging officers to manage community expectations not overpromising, but striving to deliver beyond them.
Facilitators from the Federal Project Management Unit (FPMU), including Ms. Blessing Anyanwu (Technical Assistant on Communication), National DCO Vivian Amadi, and M&E Officer Mr. Ojugo E., anchored various sessions.
They emphasized that , DCOs may not directly handle complaints, however they are the project’s messengers, adding that , their duty is to promptly channel community concerns to the Safeguards Unit for appropriate follow-up.
“Communication Officers make this project visible,” one facilitator noted, urging participants to adopt new tools, work hand-in-hand with safeguard teams, and stay committed to transparency and accountability.”
They further added that, RAAMP’s true impact is measured not only in roads constructed or markets improved, but in the trust nurtured with the people.
The trainees were tutored on how to explored real-life scenarios, practiced community engagement methods, and sharpened their communication skills and were urged to maximize the toll-free lines, while ensuring their existence are well publicized to allow members of their communities to enjoy the access to lodge their concerns.
Further emphasizing that, they should collaborate closely with Safeguards Units for swift and proper grievance handling. leverage on the conventional and new media for greater RAAMP visibility.
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Excellent