CSOs Mobilize Global Support for October 22 Advocates’ Day

By Daniel Ebi, Minna

The Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Nigeria have called on the United Nations (UN) and the African Union (AU) to declare October 22 every year as the Global Day of the Advocate, in recognition of individuals and organizations championing social justice and positive change across communities.

The call was made in Minna, Niger State, during the celebration of the third edition of the Day of the Advocate, held on Thursday, October 22, 2026.

The initiators, Kalejaiye Olasunkanmi and Daniel Atori, said the proposed international observance was necessary to address what they described as inadequate recognition and institutional support for advocates who commit their time, resources and expertise to improving society.

They noted that declaring October 22 a global day would provide an opportunity to celebrate advocates, amplify their voices, showcase their achievements and attract greater institutional support for their activities.

Speaking at the event, the Executive Director of Global Promoters for Community Initiative (GPCI), Mr Kalejaiye, said recognizing advocates was essential to building inclusive, accountable and sustainable societies.

He described advocates as critical agents of social transformation, noting that they raise public awareness, mobilize communities, influence policies, promote accountability and defend the interests of vulnerable and undeserved populations.

According to him, the Day of the Advocate was established to encourage existing advocates, inspire emerging ones, strengthen partnerships and promote a culture of appreciation for individuals and organizations working to make society better.

Kalejaiye added that formal recognition by the UN and AU would create an international platform for celebrating advocacy initiatives, showcasing successful interventions and attracting increased support for individuals and organizations driving positive social change.

Also speaking, the Secretary of the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations in Niger State (COCSIN), Mr Daniel Atori, said the campaign was aimed at securing international recognition for individuals who deploy their voices, skills and commitment towards advancing the common good.

“Our message is simple: celebrate the advocates, recognize their initiatives, support the cause and sustain the changes,” Atori said.

He stressed that the initiative was not limited to Nigeria but was designed to secure worldwide recognition for October 22 as a day dedicated to celebrating advocates and their contributions to humanity.

Atori urged development partners and other stakeholders to support the campaign, emphasizing that advocates play crucial roles in promoting human rights, healthcare, education, child protection, gender equality, social protection and environmental sustainability.

He maintained that recognizing their contributions would strengthen advocacy efforts, encourage greater participation in social development and inspire more people to take active roles in addressing societal challenges.

The initiators consequently appealed to the UN, AU, development partners and relevant institutions to support the proposed observance, arguing that individuals and organizations working to improve lives, defend vulnerable populations and advance social justice deserve greater recognition and sustained encouragement.