There is no better way to measure the impact of a development programme than hearing directly from the people whose lives it has touched. That was the experience of the ActionAid Nigeria Board and General Assembly when they visited Kaida Sabo Community in Gwagwalada Area Council on July 17, 2026, to assess the progress of the Local Rights Programme (LRP) being implemented by the Centre for Information Technology and Development (CITAD).
The visit brought together about 500 participants, including community members, traditional leaders, women, youth, children and local government representatives. The delegation was warmly welcomed with colourful cultural performances before engaging with beneficiaries who shared first-hand accounts of how the programme has transformed their lives since its inception in 2023.
Throughout the visit, community members showcased initiatives supported under the programme, including the ICT Centre, Village Savings and Loan Associations (VSLA), agroecology farming, Gender Action Learning System (GALS), Gender-Based Violence (GBV) prevention and child sponsorship activities. Rather than simply presenting reports, beneficiaries demonstrated the knowledge and skills they had acquired, giving the visitors a clear picture of the programme’s impact.
One of the highlights was a presentation by Child Ambassador Ummaima, whose confidence and leadership impressed members of the Board. The delegation also visited the community ICT Centre, where local volunteers and learners confidently demonstrated practical computer skills, highlighting how the facility is helping young people prepare for computer-based examinations and other digital opportunities.
Community leaders expressed appreciation to ActionAid Nigeria and CITAD for investing in initiatives that have strengthened education, improved livelihoods and promoted greater participation of women and young people in community development. In turn, the Board commended the community for taking ownership of the interventions and sustaining them through active local participation.
The visit reaffirmed the value of community-led development. It also reinforced a shared commitment to expanding opportunities that empower communities to drive their own sustainable development.
