Group Sets New Agenda On Democracy, Climate, Electoral Reforms

The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has launched its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan with a renewed focus on democratic accountability, climate justice and citizen empowerment.

Presenting the document in Abuja, CHRICED executive director, Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, said Nigeria’s insecurity, climate shocks and persistent electoral malpractice require urgent, coordinated reforms.

Zikirullahi said the new strategy is anchored on six pillars: climate justice, indigenous rights, maternal and child health, digital empowerment, accountability and electoral integrity.

He said CHRICED will deepen its work with communities to strengthen governance and promote inclusive development.

He noted that climate change, rising insecurity, the exclusion of indigenous FCT communities and recurring electoral malpractice continue to threaten national cohesion.

“These challenges demand courage, clarity and collective action,” he said.

Zikirullahi said the organisation will intensify advocacy for transparent climate policies, support vulnerable groups, and push for improved maternal and child health in underserved areas.

He added that digital technology must be used to empower citizens, not suppress dissent.

“Technology must be a tool for liberation, not oppression,” he said, adding that CHRICED will invest in digital literacy and platforms that amplify citizens’ voices.

On elections, he said restoring public confidence in the electoral process is critical for democracy to thrive.

“Without electoral integrity, democracy cannot stand. With it, citizens can trust that their voices truly matter,” he said.

He described the strategic plan as evidence-based and rights-driven, and commended the MacArthur Foundation for supporting its development.

He also acknowledged CHRICED’s Board, staff and partners, and paid special tribute to governance expert, Mr. Oladayo Olaide, for his contributions.

Zikirullahi called on citizens, civic groups and development actors to work with CHRICED in advancing inclusive governance.

“Documents do not change societies—people do. The future we seek must be built through collective action,” he added.

Oladayo Olaide explained that the strategy revolves around two major themes: Rights and Development, and Democracy and Accountability.

He said each theme comes with clear goals expected to be achieved by 2030, and that the plan aligns with national efforts to reduce maternal deaths, strengthen governance and build resilience to climate-related risks.

The plan also addresses risks that may threaten its implementation, ranging from political instability to insecurity, funding pressures and digital surveillance, and outlined steps to manage them.

After formally unveiling the document, Chairman of CHRICED’s Board, Prof. Momodu Kassim-Momodu, assured participants that the organisation is fully committed to carrying out every part of the plan to help strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

The hybrid event drew development partners, civil society organisations and a range of stakeholders who engaged CHRICED officials on how to ensure that the ambitious strategy delivers real and measurable impact over the next five years.