EU, Global Rights Recommit to Promoting Good Governance, Strengthening Democratic Institutions in Nigeria

The European Union (EU) and Global Rights have renewed their partnership with Nigeria, pledging to foster good governance and bolster democratic institutions. The collaboration also aims to safeguard civic space and promote active citizen involvement in public life, emphasizing that an open civic environment is crucial for democratic governance, sustainable development, and accountable institutions. Massimo De Luca, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS, highlighted the evolving nature of civic space globally and the increasing importance of dialogue between governments and civil society. He noted the EU's support for a project designed to enhance regulatory compliance among CSOs, encourage constructive engagement with public institutions, and support dialogue on regulatory reforms. De Luca described the project's end-line evaluation report and state ranking dashboard as significant achievements, providing evidence-based assessments and an innovative tool for comparing the regulatory environment for CSOs across Nigerian states. Prof. Chidi Odinkalu, Chairman of Global Rights' Governing Board, urged CSOs to embed compliance as an organizational culture, not merely a donor requirement, warning that Nigeria faces a politically sensitive period that will test CSOs' resilience. Abiodun Baiyewu, Executive Director of Global Rights, viewed the project's conclusion as the start of a new phase of sustained cooperation among various stakeholders, including government, regulators, CSOs, women, and youth.

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This makes sustaining the dialogue between governments, regulators, legislatures and civil society more important than ever. Strong institutions are built through collaboration, mutual accountability and trust.