CHRICED Launches Digital Media To Boost Civic Engagement

The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has unveiled two new digital broadcasting platforms — CHRICED Radio and CHRICED TV — in a bold effort to expand civic engagement and promote human rights across Nigeria and beyond.

At the launch event in Abuja, the chairman of CHRICED’s Board of Trustees, Professor Momodu Kassim Momodu, described the initiative as a milestone in civil society advocacy.

He said the digital platforms would serve as powerful tools to promote democratic accountability, amplify grassroots voices, and push for the implementation of citizens’ rights as outlined in Nigeria’s Constitution and global conventions.

“This is probably the first NGO to establish both radio and TV stations simultaneously. It marks a significant step forward in our journey, which began in 2006 and has been bolstered by the continued support of our partners, particularly the MacArthur Foundation,” Prof. Momodu stated.

He emphasised the platforms’ global reach, noting that they would allow CHRICED to tell Nigeria’s story from the perspective of its people.

“This is not just for Nigeria or Africa. We are creating a channel for the world to hear about our work, our observations, and our impact — from the perspective of human rights and social justice,” he said.

Momodu further called on the media, the public, and civil society to collaborate with CHRICED in this new digital phase.

“Our message is simple: promote human rights, hold governments accountable, and ensure citizens enjoy the inalienable rights endowed by God and enshrined in our Constitution.”

In his remarks, the traditional ruler of Karshi, His Royal Highness Alhaji Isma’ila Mohammed, praised CHRICED’s initiative as timely and transformative.

Reflecting on the evolution of the Nigerian media landscape, the monarch commended the shift toward internet-based platforms, which offer broader reach and lower barriers to entry compared to traditional broadcasting.

“Before now, radio and television were monopolised by the government. This shift to digital and online broadcasting removes political gatekeeping and gives communities a chance to tell their own stories,” he said.

He lauded CHRICED’s commitment to issues affecting the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), especially its indigenous populations. He expressed hope that the new media platforms would highlight local governance challenges and promote needed constitutional reforms.

“We’ve submitted numerous requests for equitable representation in the National Assembly and the creation of more area councils for the FCT. Through platforms like CHRICED Radio and TV, we can better educate fellow Nigerians on our concerns and aspirations,” HRH Mohammed said.

The event was attended by civic leaders, media practitioners, traditional rulers, and representatives of development partners.

CHRICED’s executive director, Dr Ibrahim Zikirullahi, is expected to provide operational details in the coming days as the platforms prepare to go live with programming centred on governance, civic participation, and social inclusion.

The CHRICED digital platforms are seen as a critical addition to Nigeria’s civic ecosystem. They aim to bridge the gap between citizens and duty bearers and promote transparent, inclusive governance.