NYSC INTIMATES CORPS MEMBERS ON FOIA, SAYS INFORMATION IS OXYGEN TO DEMOCRACY

The Osun State National Youths Service Corps has attributed access to timely and accurate information as the life of a democratic nation.

Photo: Mrs. Catherine Otemuyiwa

The Scheme's Freedom of Information Act Desk Officer, Mrs. Catherine Otemuyiwa, made this known while intimating Corps Members with the tenets of the Freedom of Information Acts (FIOA) which was signed into law in 2011 by then President Goodluck Jonathan.

The Act, according to her, gave room for availability of public records' information and also provided members of the public the access to such information.

Otemuyiwa said: “FOIA helps to protect government records and information, personal privacy and also protect whistleblowers from the adverse consequences of disclosing information without authorization.”

Photo: section of corps members

The Corps Members were also acquainted with the significance of the Act which include improvement in service delivery, encourage citizens' participation in governance and bring about citizens' satisfaction.

Other significance, as stated by her, are that it breeds trust in government, encourages a smooth stakeholders relations management and also encourages transparency and accountability of public institutions.

She also enlightened the Corps Members on the FOIA Vanguard, stating that the group is found in all the LGAs in the State for wider reach. She highlighted the functions of the Group, and eligibility.