By Hussaini Ibrahim
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education has unveiled a five-year strategic plan targeting climate justice, maternal and child health, and Nigeria’s growing out-of-school children crisis.
The organisation launched its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan titled “Making Democracy Work for All” on Saturday, outlining renewed commitments to justice, accountability and inclusive governance.
Speaking at the media launch, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, described the new plan as a moment of “reflection, renewal, and recommitment,” noting that it represents more than a policy document.
He said, “This strategic plan is a declaration of purpose and a roadmap for decisive action in a period marked by complex national challenges.”
Zikirullahi explained that CHRICED’s interventions over the last two decades have largely focused on amplifying the voices of marginalised communities and strengthening civic participation.
The new strategy, he added, builds on this foundation while responding to urgent realities such as climate change, insecurity, exclusion of indigenous peoples and worsening maternal and child mortality.
He also identified the weaponisation of digital technologies, shrinking civic space and persistent electoral malpractice as major threats to Nigeria’s democratic stability.
“These issues require bold action and a renewed collective commitment to safeguard our nation’s future,” he said.
According to him, the five-year plan is anchored on six pillars: environmental justice, indigenous rights, maternal and child health, digital empowerment, democratic accountability and electoral integrity.
He stressed that environmental justice remains a survival issue, while protecting indigenous communities — particularly Abuja’s original inhabitants — is essential for democratic legitimacy.
Zikirullahi also reaffirmed CHRICED’s commitment to improving health outcomes for vulnerable mothers and children.
He thanked the MacArthur Foundation for supporting the development of the strategy and acknowledged the efforts of CHRICED’s Board, staff and partners.
Giving additional insight, Mr. Oladayo Olaide said the plan is built around two core themes — Rights and Development, and Democracy and Accountability — with specific outcomes expected by 2030.
He added that the plan aligns with national efforts to reduce maternal deaths, address climate vulnerabilities and strengthen governance at multiple levels.
The document also outlines risk-management strategies covering political instability, insecurity, funding gaps, digital surveillance and compliance issues, alongside proposed mitigation measures.
Chairman of CHRICED’s Board, Prof. Momodu Kassim-Momodu, formally launched the document and assured stakeholders of its effective implementation to strengthen the country’s democratic framework.
The hybrid event drew development partners, civil society groups and other stakeholders who engaged CHRICED officials on ensuring the effective execution of the ambitious five-year plan.