Getting the Government on Your Side

Hello Changemakers,

In our last discussion, we explored the pros and cons of involving the government in your NGO or social enterprise. Now, let’s focus on something even more practical—how to get the government to work with you, support your initiatives, and help you scale impact.

Recently, I had a live radio interview about one of our projects. Towards the end, the host asked, “Is this project endorsed or supported by the government?” That question wasn’t just about formality—it was about credibility and trust. People want to know that your work is recognised by the right authorities. Thankfully, we had a whole list of government bodies and MDAs backing us, and sharing that instantly reinforced our legitimacy.

But what if we didn’t? Not because our work wasn’t impactful, but because we hadn’t built those relationships.

So, how do you ensure that you have the right government connections in place when the time comes? Let’s break it down.

1. Identify the Right Government Bodies to Engage

Not every government office is relevant to your work. Instead of making broad requests and wasting time in endless meetings, focus on the agencies that align with your mission.

• Running a health-related project? Engage the Ministry of Health, local Primary Healthcare Boards, or public health agencies.
• Working in education? The Ministry of Education, Universal Basic Education Boards, or Teachers’ Associations are your best bet.
• Providing humanitarian aid? Emergency management agencies, ministries of social development, or local government offices can help.

The point: Don’t spread your energy everywhere, go where your work is most relevant.

2. Build Relationships Before You Need Them

Government engagement is not just about sending official letters; it’s about relationships. Try these:

• Attend relevant events and network with government representatives. If they know your face, your emails and letters won’t feel like every other letter they get.
• Seek introductions through mutual contacts. Many times, an internal recommendation can push your request forward faster than a cold email.
• Engage community leaders or professionals who have successfully worked with the government before.

Sometimes, a simple conversation can open doors that would otherwise take months to access.

3. Invite Government Officials to Your Events

It’s better to invite them and they don’t come than to never invite them at all. Even if they don’t show up, your invitation keeps your initiative on their radar.

Example: If you’re hosting a skills training for women, invite the Ministry of Women Affairs, the local government chairman, or even a representative from the PHC Board.

Even if they send a representative or just acknowledge your invitation, you’ve made an impression. One day, when you need their support, they’ll remember your initiative.

4. Attend Government Events—Be in Their Faces

When government agencies invite stakeholders to meetings, show up. Even if it feels like “just another policy discussion,” your presence keeps you visible.

Why does this matter? If they see you often enough, they’ll remember you when funding, partnerships, or policy decisions come up. Position yourself as a key player in your sector.

5. Start Local Before Going Big

It’s tempting to aim for federal-level partnerships, but local government support is often the easiest entry point.

• They are easier to access and often more open to community projects.
• A letter of support from a local government chairman or commissioner can make it easier to approach state or federal agencies later.

If you can get backing from local authorities, you’ll find that higher government bodies will take your work more seriously.

6. Keep Your Requests Simple and Clear

Government officials handle multiple responsibilities, so clarity is key when presenting your work. Instead of vague requests, ensure your communication is:

• Clear about what your project is.
• Specific about what you need from them.

For example: Instead of saying, “We run a project that helps young mothers and we would like government collaboration.”?

Say: “We are providing nutrition support for children under 5 in Alimosho LGA. We would like the Ministry of Health to endorse our work and help us access local PHC data.”

When they instantly understand what you do, what you need, and why it matters, you increase your chances of getting a response.

7. Plan Ahead—Way Ahead

Government approvals don’t happen overnight. If you need an endorsement, permit, or MOU, submit your request at least two months in advance.

Example: Planning a medical outreach in December? If you wait until November to request Ministry of Health approval, you may not get a response in time. Instead, start in October, follow up consistently, and keep things professional.

Here’s how to stay ahead:

1. Follow up strategically: Send reminders; emails, calls, or even in-person check-ins.
2. Keep records: Track emails, meeting notes, and even WhatsApp messages.
3. Remain patient yet proactive: Government processes may take longer than expected, but persistence often pays off.

So, Should You Engage the Government?

Absolutely. But success requires strategy, patience, and persistence.

Start small. Build relationships. Keep things clear and professional.

If someone asks tomorrow, “Is your project recognised by the government?”—will you have an answer? If not, it’s time to start making moves.

Which of these steps will you take first? Hit reply and let’s talk.

Best, Ogechi