Abuja, Nigeria — Renowned transparency advocate Mr. Auwal Musa Rafsanjani is set to play a pivotal role at the 8th Papyrus Global Local Government Chairmen/Mayors Conference & Awards (PAGMACA) 2026, following the confirmation of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) as an official panelist at the high-level gathering.
The announcement by The Papyrus Global marks a significant addition to the conference lineup, further strengthening PAGMACA 2026’s position as a leading platform for shaping governance, accountability, and sustainable development across Africa. Scheduled to hold from April 29th to May 1st, 2026, in Abuja, the event will bring together mayors, local government chairmen, policymakers, development partners, and thought leaders from over twenty countries.
Mr. Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC, is widely respected for his decades-long commitment to promoting transparency, legislative accountability, and anti-corruption reforms in Nigeria and beyond. At the conference, he will contribute to a high-level panel discussion on “Civil Society Oversight,” a theme that is increasingly critical in strengthening democratic governance at the grassroots level.
His participation comes at a time when the role of civil society in holding public institutions accountable is under intense focus across Africa. With local governments serving as the closest tier of administration to the people, experts argue that effective oversight mechanisms are essential to ensuring that public resources are managed responsibly and that citizens receive quality services.
Through his work with CISLAC, Mr. Rafsanjani has consistently championed initiatives that bridge the gap between government and citizens, advocating for greater transparency in public finance and inclusive decision-making processes. His insights at PAGMACA 2026 are expected to provide practical strategies for local leaders seeking to build trust, improve governance outcomes, and foster stronger community engagement.
Organisers of the conference have highlighted the importance of his contribution, noting that CISLAC’s experience in advocacy and civic engagement will enrich discussions and offer actionable solutions for policymakers.
His presence also underscores the conference’s commitment to ensuring that diverse voices including those from civil society are represented in shaping Africa’s governance agenda.
PAGMACA 2026 is already attracting significant attention, with over 40 mayors and local business executives confirmed to attend, alongside key government officials and international development partners.
The event will serve as a convergence point for dialogue on pressing issues such as governance reform, economic development, climate adaptation, and institutional accountability.
In addition to panel discussions, the conference will feature an awards segment recognising outstanding leadership and innovation among local governments, reinforcing the importance of excellence and integrity in public service.
For stakeholders across the continent, the inclusion of Mr. Rafsanjani and CISLAC signals a strong emphasis on accountability and citizen-centered governance.
Their participation is expected to inspire meaningful conversations and drive commitments toward more transparent and responsive leadership at the sub-national level.
As anticipation builds, PAGMACA 2026 continues to stand out as more than just a conference it is a strategic platform for collaboration, innovation, and reform. With voices like Mr. Auwal Musa Rafsanjani leading critical discussions, the event is poised to deliver impactful outcomes that will shape the future of governance in Africa.
