By Shekwogaza Kure
In the heart of Agunji, a once-forgotten community in ‘Nasarawa Eggon Local Government Area’ Nasarawa state, a remarkable transformation is underway, narrating a story of redemption and progress. At the forefront of this change is Clement Moses, a visionary advocate who, inspired by the Step Up Nigeria First Time Voter Initiative, ignited a movement that breathed new life into a town that had long been overlooked. As the sun rises on Agunji, the shadows of despair are dissipating, making way for the promise of a brighter future.
Clement Moses: Advocate for Change
Clement Moses, a tireless advocate for political accountability, calls Agunji home – a community that, until recently, lacked even the most basic amenities. Empowered by the knowledge acquired from the First Time Voter Initiative, implemented by Step Up Nigeria, Clement embarked on a mission to inspire change. His passionate call for holding politicians accountable resonated deeply within the community, elevating him to the guiding force in their collective pursuit of a better tomorrow. The support of Agunji’s elders, notably, the Chairman of Eggon Cultural Development Association (ECDA) Superintendent Officer Sunday Aya, has been instrumental. Aya spearheaded several stakeholder meetings, rallying the elders to fully support this transformative mission.
Engaging Politicians and Public Servants in Transformation
The community of Agunji took bold steps to engage in open conversations with their political representatives and requested basic amenities during the recent election campaigns. The result was nothing short of transformative – a commitment from Hon Godiya Akwanshiki, the senator representing Akwanga, Wamba, and Nasarawa Eggon constituencies to provide electricity in Agunji community. This commitment materialized in the installation of an electricity transformer, symbolizing the departure of the darkness that had enshrouded the town for far too long. The dawn of a new Agunji community, destined for economic growth and prosperity, had begun as the community now experiences constant electricity.
Hon Ibrahim Mohammed, popularly known as Vandalism, furthered the commitment to infrastructural development in Agunji by installing solar-powered water pumps, addressing the community’s water issues. Grinding engines were donated by individuals in the community to boost its economy. Beyond these physical contributions, the donation of over 100 economic palm trees by YMCA to Agunji added symbolic depth to the town’s revival. These tangible changes have sparked an economic resurgence within the community.
A Town Reborn
Agunji is shedding its silence. Economic activities now reverberate through its streets, illuminated by the glow of lights powered by the once-dormant electricity transformer. Children play freely, and hope, once elusive, now permeates every corner of Agunji.
The resurgence didn’t halt physical changes; it gave birth to the Integrity Women’s Group, marking a paradigm shift within the community. Comprising passionate advocates, these women celebrate the initiative through songs echoing honesty, accountability, and progress, serving as a vocal testament to Agunji’s renewal.
A Unified Vision: Community Meetings Become the Norm
Community meetings, previously scarce, are now a norm in Agunji. Community leaders, women and youth as well as political representatives converge regularly to discuss ways forward. Silent voices, especially those of the women and youth are amplified, forging a unified vision for a brighter future.
Agunji’s journey is a triumph over despair, a testament to the resilience of a community determined to rewrite its narrative. Clement Moses, the catalyst for change, has sparked a flame that dispelled the shadows of the past, paving the way for a future filled with promise and progress. In the pages of Agunji’s story, redemption is not just a concept; it’s a lived experience, and the town stands poised at the threshold of a new era.
The Agunji community serves as a pacesetter community for other communities to emulate. Little by little we would make Nigeria a better place.
Building Nigeria 🇳🇬 one Moses at a time. Thanks for this.