UN, AU URGED TO DECLARE OCTOBER 22 GLOBAL DAY OF ADVOCATES
Minna
Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) working in Nigeria have called on the United Nations and the African Union to consider and formally recognise October 22nd of every year as the Day of the Advocates.
While addressing Journalists in Minna over the weekend in Minna, the initiators, Messrs Kalejaiye Olasunkanmi and Daniel Atori, lamented that, “despite the contributions of Advocates who work tirelessly there is no adequate recognition or support”.
Following the third commemoration, they called on the United Nations (UN) and the African Union (AU) to formally consider and recognise 22nd October as the Day of the Advocate.
It should be recalled that, Day of the Advocate was commemorated for the third time on Thursday 22nd October 2026 in Minna, Niger State, through the joint initiative of some CSOs who believe that advocates driving positive initiatives across the globe deserve recognition and appreciation.
While commending various Advocates across the country, Mr. Kalejaiye who is the Executive Director, Global Promoters for Community Initiative (GPCI), said recognising advocates is an important step towards building inclusive, accountable and sustainable communities.
Accordingly , he said “advocates are often the voices behind meaningful change. They raise awareness, mobilise communities, influence policies, promote accountability and speak up for vulnerable and underserved populations.
“The Day of the Advocate therefore seeks to encourage their commitment, inspire emerging advocates, strengthen partnerships and promote a culture of appreciation for everyone working to make society better.”
He then added that, such recognition would provide a global platform to celebrate advocates, showcase successful initiatives and encourage greater support for people championing positive social change.
Secretary of the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations in Niger State (COCSIN), Daniel Atori while responding to questions said “our message is simple: Celebrate the advocates, recognise their initiatives, support the cause and sustain the changes.
“All we are doing is to call on the UN and AU to set aside a date to celebrate drivers of positive change globally. So that every 22 October will be a day specially to celebrate those who use their voices, skills and commitment to make the world a better place”.
Furthermore, Mr. Atori appealed to Development Partners to join their voices to see that the vital roles Advocates play in promoting human rights, healthcare, education, child protection, gender equality, social protection, environmental sustainability and other causes that improve people’s lives are recognised.
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