The Federal Government has launched Nigeria?s National Volunteer Database along with the blueprint for the National Policy on Inclusive Volunteerism.

The database, launched through the Nigerian National Volunteer Service under the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation in collaboration with Natview Technology, aims to make volunteerism a central element of Nigeria?s sustainable development efforts.

According to a statement by the Head of Communications, Natview Technology, Olubunmi Olorunpomi, on Saturday, the initiative, which was launched on Wednesday in Abuja, was themed ?Launching the National Volunteer Database in Nigeria and the Blueprint of the National Policy on Inclusive Volunteerism.?

It is part of the government?s ongoing commitment to encouraging civic engagement among citizens, with an emphasis on sustainable national development.

According to the SGF, George Akume, represented by a Director, Ifiok Abia, stated that the National Volunteer Database provides Nigerians with structured and easy access to volunteer opportunities, which align with the country?s socio-economic, environmental, and societal goals.

He said, ?The blueprint for the National Policy on Inclusive Volunteerism, approved by the Federal Executive Council in December 2020, offers a detailed framework for organized and inclusive volunteerism across the country. Administered by the NNVS, the policy prioritizes critical areas such as health, education, the environment, and social work.?

By creating an inclusive volunteer structure, the government aims to ?empower individuals, organizations, and communities to take collective action? in driving the nation?s growth and development, Abia noted.

The SGF further added that the National Volunteer Database is designed to make volunteer engagement accessible, efficient, and impactful for both volunteers and organizations.

?It offers several unique features, including a User-Friendly Volunteer Registration and Matching system that allows citizens to register, specify skills, and be connected with volunteer opportunities that suit their interests and expertise.?

Abia explained that the platform includes a ?Community Project Listings? feature, where NGOs, community groups, and government agencies can post detailed descriptions of volunteer opportunities.

? This ensures that potential volunteers are fully informed about project requirements and expectations before committing.?

Moreover, the database incorporates ?Built-In Communication and Impact Assessment? tools, which facilitate direct interaction between volunteers and project organizers. This system also includes feedback mechanisms to evaluate project outcomes, creating a culture of accountability and continuous improvement within volunteer projects.

He added, ?The government?s objective with this platform is to cultivate a culture where all Nigerians can contribute to nation-building, fostering an environment of civic responsibility and active citizenship.

?This initiative is expected to strengthen community bonds across regions and backgrounds, enabling people from different parts of Nigeria to work collaboratively to tackle various socio-economic and environmental challenges.

Speaking on the significance of the platform, Natview Technology?s CEO, Nuradeen Maidoki, explained, ?A number of Nigerian youths really want to volunteer but don?t know where to begin. We are excited about the NNVS web platform, as it will provide a full database of volunteer opportunities for young people.?

Maidoki emphasized the potential of the database to guide youth into meaningful volunteer roles, underscoring the platform?s potential to serve as a valuable resource for aspiring volunteers across the country.

He added. ?By encouraging volunteerism through this innovative digital platform and policy framework, the Nigerian government is taking a notable step toward building a more connected, responsible, and resilient society. Through this collaborative approach, all citizens are encouraged to contribute meaningfully to national development, promoting unity and strengthening community bonds across Nigeria.? (Saturday PUNCH)

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