As part of its commitment to promoting inclusive governance, democratic participation, and credible electoral processes, Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) hosted representatives of the International Republican Institute (IRI) and the Canadian Observation Mission Envoy at its office during the electioneering period ahead of the just-concluded Osun State Governorship Election.
The engagements provided an opportunity for meaningful conversations around the electoral process, democratic participation, citizen engagement, election preparedness, and other critical issues affecting the conduct and credibility of elections in Nigeria.
During the visits, Crownrise Development Initiative shared perspectives and grassroots insights on the emerging electoral landscape in Osun State, while also exploring opportunities for collaboration and partnership in strengthening democratic institutions, civic participation, youth engagement, and good governance.
The interactions further reinforced the importance of collaboration among civil society organisations, international development partners, electoral stakeholders, and citizens in advancing a more transparent, inclusive, peaceful, and accountable democratic process.
Crownrise Development Initiative remains committed to working with relevant stakeholders and partners to promote good governance, civic participation, youth and women development, and sustainable community development across Osun State and beyond.
The organisation appreciates the International Republican Institute, the Canadian Observation Mission Envoy, and other stakeholders for their engagement and continued interest in supporting democratic development in Nigeria.
Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) hosted a one-day dialogue tagged “Her Voice Matters”, bringing together key stakeholders, women, young people, civil society actors and democracy advocates to discuss the need for increased and meaningful participation of women in politics and democratic governance.
The dialogue, held on Friday, August 8, 2026, in Osogbo, Osun State, was themed “Women Participation in Politics.” The programme provided a platform for participants to examine the opportunities, challenges and barriers limiting women’s involvement in political processes, leadership and decision-making.
The event commenced with a welcome address by the Executive Director of Crownrise Development Initiative, Hon. Adetunji Ajala, who emphasized the organization’s commitment to creating platforms that amplify citizens’ voices and promote inclusive participation in governance. He buttressed the importance of ensuring that women are not merely represented as voters and supporters during elections but are also empowered to actively contest for political offices and occupy decision-making spaces.
A major highlight of the programme was the panel discussion, which featured experienced professionals and stakeholders with diverse perspectives on democracy, elections, gender inclusion and civic participation.
The panel comprised Miss Obafemi Deborah, Monitoring and Evaluation Officer at the Kukah Centre; Mr. Rufus Ariyo, Head of Department, Voter Education, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC); and Dr. Funmilayo Ojo, former Secretary of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ).
The panelists explored various dimensions of women’s participation in politics, including voter education, political representation, leadership opportunities, media visibility, institutional barriers and the role of women in strengthening democratic institutions.
Discussions also highlighted the need to address some of the persistent challenges confronting women in politics, including limited access to political structures, inadequate resources, societal stereotypes, violence and intimidation, and insufficient support for women seeking elective and appointive positions.
Participants were encouraged to move beyond conversations about women’s inclusion and take deliberate steps towards creating an environment where women can participate freely, safely and meaningfully at every level of the political process.
The dialogue provided an opportunity for participants to share experiences, ask questions and contribute recommendations on practical ways to strengthen women’s political participation in Osun State and Nigeria at large.
The engagement further emphasized the importance of civic education, mentorship, advocacy, networking and capacity building as critical tools for preparing more women to take up leadership roles and contribute effectively to democratic governance.
The “Her Voice Matters” Dialogue is part of CDI’s broader commitment to advancing good governance, civic participation, gender inclusion and accountable democratic institutions through community engagement, advocacy, research and capacity building.
Democracy thrives when every voice is heard, represented, and empowered. Yet, women remain underrepresented in political leadership and decision-making despite their invaluable contributions to national development. To bridge this gap, Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) is convening the Women Political Participation Dialogue, a strategic platform designed to inspire, equip, and mobilize women for active participation in politics and governance.
Under the theme “Her Voice Matters”, this dialogue will bring together women leaders, young women, civil society actors, community influencers, development partners, and political stakeholders to engage in meaningful conversations on increasing women’s representation in politics, dismantling barriers to participation, and strengthening inclusive democratic governance.
Who Should Attend; Women aspiring for leadership and political office, Youth leaders and student activists, Civil society organizations, Political party representatives, Community leaders, Development practitioners, Gender advocates, Members of the public interested in democratic development
Event Details:
Date: Friday, August 7, 2026 Time: 10:00 AM Venue: CDI Conference Room, Beside Prince Ade Plaza, Fagbewesa, Osogbo.
Together, let’s amplify women’s voices, strengthen democracy, and build a more inclusive society.
Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI) remains committed to promoting active citizenship, inclusive governance, peacebuilding, and sustainable development through dialogue, advocacy, capacity building, and community engagement.
Access to basic healthcare remains a significant challenge in many rural communities. For many families, regular medical checkups are not a priority not because they do not care, but because access is limited. Many people only seek medical attention when conditions have worsened, especially in cases such as hypertension, diabetes, and other chronic illnesses that often show little or no early symptoms. This gap in access and awareness continues to put vulnerable populations at risk and highlights the urgent need for community-based health interventions.
In response to this need, Crownrise Development Initiative, in partnership with Benson Adeyemi Foundation and the Osun State Ministry of Health, successfully carried out a Rural Community Medical Outreach at the Old Community Hall, Oke Awesin, Erin Osun on February 28th, 2026.
The outreach was brought up to provide free medical services and promote the importance of regular health checkups, especially for underserved populations.Community members (young and old) turned out in large numbers to participate. Following a brief health talk emphasizing the importance of early detection and preventive care.
After consultations, prescribed medications were distributed free of charge to beneficiaries. Food support was also provided as part of the outreach.The medical team emphasized that many serious health conditions can be managed effectively when detected early. This outreach brought essential healthcare services directly to the community.At Crownrise Development Initiative, we remain committed to initiatives that improve community wellbeing and strengthen access to basic healthcare services. This outreach reflects our ongoing mission to serve, support, and uplift rural communities through practical and impactful interventions.
On Friday, 30th January 2026, Crownrise Development Initiative (CDI), in partnership with DMercy-P Humanitarian Foundation, successfully hosted a deeply impactful program titled “Learning from the Scar” at Oroki Hub, Oroki Estate, Osogbo.
The event brought together advocates, professionals, community voices, and survivors in a safe and empowering space designed for sharing, healing, exposure, connection, mentorship, and discovery. The program reinforced a powerful message: every story matters, and every voice deserves to be heard.
Opening Session
The program began with welcome remarks from the Executive Directors of both partnering organizations, who highlighted the purpose behind Learning from the Scar. They emphasized the need to create supportive environments where individuals can openly discuss lived experiences, especially those shaped by gender-based challenges, trauma, and societal expectations.
They also reaffirmed the commitment of both organizations to advancing community development, inclusion, and psychosocial empowerment through sustained advocacy and mentorship.
Opening Charge: Gender Mainstreaming
The keynote opening charge was delivered by Mrs. Adebayo Oluwatoyin, who spoke on the importance of gender mainstreaming in both community and institutional spaces.Her session underscored that gender inclusion is not a peripheral issue but a foundational approach to development. She stressed the need to intentionally design policies, programs, and social systems that recognize the unique experiences of all genders, ensuring equal access to opportunities, support, and protection. Her address set the tone for the day, linking personal healing with systemic change.
Experience Sharing: Voices from the Scar
One of the most moving segments of the program was the experience-sharing session, where participants courageously shared personal stories shaped by hardship, resilience, and growth.These narratives created a moment of collective reflection and solidarity, reminding everyone present that scars, whether emotional, social, or physical can become sources of strength, learning, and transformation. The session fostered empathy, connection, and a renewed sense of hope among attendees.
Panel Session: Conversations That Matter
The event featured a robust and engaging panel discussion moderated by Hon. Adetunji Ajala, Executive Director of Crownrise Development Initiative.The panel brought together diverse perspectives from leadership, advocacy, and lived experience. Panelists included: Dr. Modupe Ishola Olanrewaju – CEO, Oroki Foods, Citizen Omolola Way and Mrs. Betty Fakayode.The discussion explored several critical themes, including: The role of community support systems in healing and empowerment, Breaking the culture of silence around gender-related issues, Economic empowerment as a pathway to dignity and independence,Turning personal pain into purpose and advocacy. The panelists shared insights drawn from their professional journeys and community engagement, encouraging participants to seek support, speak up, and actively contribute to positive social change.
Closing and Reflections
The program concluded with closing remarks Hon. Adetunji Ajala, who appreciated all speakers, panelists, and participants for their openness and contributions. Attendees were reminded that healing is a journey best taken in the community, and that platforms like Learning from the Scar exist to ensure no one walks that path alone.
The event ended on a unifying note with a group photograph, symbolizing solidarity, resilience, and a shared commitment to building safer, more inclusive communities.
Looking Ahead
Learning from the Scar is more than an event, it is a movement toward awareness, healing, and transformation. Crownrise Development Initiative and DMercy-P Humanitarian Foundation remain committed to expanding such platforms that amplify voices, promote gender inclusion, and foster community-driven solutions.
Because every scar carries a story and every story has the power to inspire change.
*Crownrise Development Initiative in partnership with Dmercy-P Humanitarian Foundation* invites you to a life-transforming program where your voice will be heard, your experiences valued, and your ideas amplified.
Join us on *30th January, 2026* for an empowering session designed to help you—Connect, Speak, Learn, and be Transformed.
This is more than just a gathering, it’s a safe space for expression, growth, healing, and action.
Location: Osogbo, Osun State.
Venue: Oroki Estate, Osogbo.
Time: 9 AM.
Let’s raise voices, break barriers, and build a stronger, more empathetic community together.
#YourVoiceMatters: Learning from the Scar. Crownrise Development Initiative, in partnership with Dmercy-P Humanitarian Foundation, presents a life-transforming program centered around healing, self-expression, and transformation.
Join us for a unique gathering designed to provide a safe space where stories are shared, voices are heard, and scars become strength.
This event is not just a conversation, it’s a movement. Through open dialogue, shared experiences, and expert guidance, we aim to foster healing, growth, and action.
Theme: Learning from the Scar Date: 30th January, 2026 Time & Venue: To be communicated upon registration.
Come and Connect, Speak, Learn, and Be Transformed.
Let your voice be part of the change. Because your voice truly matters. 💚
Comments