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Nigeria’s Economic Crisis Pressures Civil Society: WACSI Holds Strategic Consultative Meeting to Strengthen CSOs’ Sustainability 

December 12, 2024 In Newsroom By

Nigeria’s Economic Crisis Pressures Civil Society: WACSI Holds Strategic Consultative Meeting to Strengthen CSOs’ Sustainability 

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[Abuja, 5 November 2024] – The economic crisis gripping Nigeria is exerting pressure on its civil society organisations (CSOs), intensifying existing hurdles and challenging their ability to function. With inflation soaring to record levels and the cost-of-living spiking, individuals and organisations alike are feeling the pinch as resources become increasingly scarce. 

For Nigerian CSOs, many of which already operate on thin budgets, the crisis is intensifying competition for limited funding. This financial strain is exacerbated by a backdrop of political instability and rising insecurity, creating conditions that threaten the safety of advocates and further restrict civic space. As digital platforms face greater censorship and media freedoms narrow, CSOs are contending with mounting barriers to their essential work of advocacy, mobilisation, and public engagement. 

In response to these challenges, the Nigeria Node of the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) convened a consultative meeting in Abuja on 31 October 2024. The gathering brought together over 30 CSOs from across Nigeria to examine the state of the sector and explore actionable strategies for bolstering resilience. 

Speaking at the meeting, WACSI’s Executive Director, Nana Asantewa Afadzinu, stressed that the event was not just a discussion forum but a critical step towards shaping a sustainable and adaptable civil society framework. “The challenges are significant, but so is our capacity to overcome them,” Afadzinu remarked. “This meeting is about identifying solutions that can help CSOs not only survive but thrive in the current environment. We need to focus on resource mobilisation, local funding alternatives, and the use of technology to make our work more effective and secure,” she added. 

𝘕𝘢𝘯𝘢 𝘈𝘧𝘢𝘥𝘻𝘪𝘯𝘶 𝘈𝘥𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘗𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘔𝘦𝘦𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨

Broadening Funding Sources for Sustainability 

One of the central themes of the consultation was the need to diversify funding. Afadzinu emphasised that while foreign donors remain crucial to the sector, achieving long-term sustainability requires a shift towards local solutions. 

 “Local philanthropy and innovative financing models are crucial if we are to reduce reliance on foreign funds and ensure long-term sustainability,” she stated. By nurturing homegrown funding sources, Nigerian CSOs can cultivate a more resilient funding base, reducing vulnerability to external shocks and international policy shifts. 

Leveraging Technology for Security and Efficiency 

In an environment of digital censorship and cyber threats, technology emerged as a key focus for operational resilience. Through its TechSoup West Africa programme, WACSI introduced CSOs to affordable digital tools essential for secure, efficient operations in an increasingly hostile online landscape. Affordable access to these tools not only supports data security but also enables CSOs to amplify their advocacy and mobilise effectively despite constraints on digital freedoms. 

Strengthening Internal Capacity to Tackle Complex Challenges 

The consultation also underscored the importance of capacity building within the sector. Participants highlighted the need to strengthen skills in leadership, regulatory compliance, and data-driven advocacy to tackle a shrinking civic space. By investing in these capacities, CSOs can better navigate complex regulations, effectively represent the interests of Nigerian citizens, and contribute to evidence-based policymaking. 

𝘖𝘮𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘳𝘢 𝘉𝘢𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘶𝘯, 𝘏𝘦𝘢𝘥, 𝘗𝘰𝘭𝘪𝘤𝘺 𝘐𝘯𝘧𝘭𝘶𝘦𝘯𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘈𝘥𝘷𝘰𝘤𝘢𝘤𝘺 𝘜𝘯𝘪𝘵, 𝘞𝘈𝘊𝘚𝘐

A Renewed Commitment to Democratic Stability and Civic Space 

Despite the challenges, the meeting underscored the resilience and determination within Nigeria’s third sector.  

Omolara Balogun, Head, Policy Influencing and Advocacy and the Team lead for the Node, noted the enduring spirit of Nigerian CSOs: “Nigerian CSOs have proven their resilience in the face of adversity. They remain resourceful and committed to their mission, despite the daunting challenges.” 

Afadzinu echoed this sentiment, reinforcing the essential role CSOs play in safeguarding democratic values and stability.  

“The work that CSOs do today will determine Nigeria’s future. Strengthening democratic institutions is essential not only for the nation’s stability but for the region as a whole,” she noted 

This consultative meeting signifies an important step towards fortifying Nigerian civil society, equipping organisations with the tools and strategies needed to sustain their vital work. As CSOs adapt to an increasingly challenging environment, their role in defending democratic space and amplifying citizen voices remains more critical than ever. 

 

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FIIFI BOATENG

Fiifi is a Ghanaian and currently serves as Communications and Information Officer at the West Africa Civil Society Institute. He joined the Institute in December 2020.

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NANCY KANKAM KUSI

Nancy is a Ghanaian and currently serves as Programme Officer in the Knowledge Management unit at the West Africa Civil Society Institute. She joined the Institute in January 2021.

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AGNES ADWOA ANIMA

Agnes is a Ghanaian and currently serves as Head of the Administration unit in the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). She joined the Institute in October 2021.

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DORIS ODEI

Doris holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social sciences (Economics and Sociology) from the University of Cape Coast. She is passionate about impacting young lives hence co-founded Impart Foundation. A non-profit organization which seeks to empower young lives through education, technology and entrepreneurship.

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PRINCE AKOWUAH

Prince Akowuah is a Ghanaian and currently the Programme Assistant in the Translation Unit at the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). She joined the Institute in 2020.

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MAXWELL APENTENG

Maxwell Apenteng is a Ghanaian and joined WACSI in September 2010. He provides gardening and janitorial services at the Institute.

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GEORGE ADU-MINTAH

George Adu-Mintah is a Ghanaian and currently the Protocol Assistant/Driver at the West Africa Civil Society (WACSI). He joined the Institute in October 2006.

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IBRAHIM KWAKU GBADAGO

Ibrahim Kwaku Gbadago is a Ghanaian. He joined the Institute in 2008 and provides janitorial services and assisting the institute's errands. Before joining the Institute, he worked at the Palestinian embassy in Accra, Ghana.

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RUTH YAKANA

Ruth Yakana is from Cameroon and currently the Receptionist at the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). She joined the Institute in 2020.

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BETHEL KWAME BOATENG

Bethel is a Ghanaian. He provides technical and IT related support to the Institute. He joined the Institute in October 2006.

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WHITNAY SEGNONNA

Whitnay Segnonna holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Management from the University of Benin. With 2 years of experience, she has a strong knowledge of organizational and project management. Combined with her bilingualism, she is very passionate about her work. She joined WACSI as Project Assistant on Critical Ecosystem Partnership Fund (CEPF) for the Capacity Development Unit.

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STELLA YAWA WOWOUI

Stella Yawa Wowoui holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Translation Studies. She has a perfect grasp of both French and English, as well as an intermediate level in Spanish. She is currently working as a Project Assistant on the Techsoup Project.

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KWAME ASANTE

Kwame is an experienced IT Consultant/Software Developer. He is skilled in Web Applications Development, Digital Security, Database Management, Digital Marketing and Brand Management. He holds a Bachelor's Degree in Information Technology and is a Microsoft Programme Alumni. He is currently serving as a Marketing and IT Officer on the Techsoup Project.

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GRACE AKPENE ZIGGAH

Grace Akpene Ziggah is a Togolese and currently the Logistics Officer and also assists in administration duties at the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). She joined the Institute in June 2009.

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LILLIAN DAFEAMEKPOR

Lilian Dafeamekpor is a Ghanaian and currently the Assistant to the Executive Director at the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). She joined the Institute in 2020.

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JOHN P. FRINJUAH

John P. Frinjuah has expertise and interests in civil society, international development, democracy and governance, conflict, crisis, and security. He has extensive experience working with civil society and international development organizations where he supported and managed research, programmes, and provided technical assistance on a variety of themes around public policy, governance, and development. He is an alumnus of the University of Ghana and the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy - Tufts University in the United States, with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Master of Arts in Law and Diplomacy from two institutions respectively. John speaks English, French and several Ghanaian and regional West Africa languages.

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GERVIN CHANASE

Gervin has extensive international development experience, including 5 years of policy advocacy and capacity building of grass root organisations. He has implemented over the years a combination of agriculture value chain, livelihood, food security and governance and rights programmes.
Prior to joining WACSI, Gervin worked on two USAID projects focusing on agriculture value chain development and governance in northern Ghana
Gervin holds a master’s degree in development & Governance from the University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany as well as a Masters in Global Studies from the Universities of Vienna (Austria), Leipzig (Germany) and California (Santa Barbara), USA. He is passionate social justice and inclusion.

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LEANDRE BANON

Leandre Banon, Beninese, joined WACSI in September 2014 as Capacity Development Programme Assistant. Since then, he has worked in various units within the Institute to support operational and institutional capacity strengthening programmes for civil society in the region. Currently serving as Capacity Development Programme Officer at WACSI, his main responsibilities involve designing, planning, implementing and monitoring capacity development programmes for civil society constituents and grouping across the West Africa. Leandre is a certified Change the Game Academy Programme Trainer. His background lies in the areas of economics and development planning.

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SAMUEL APPIAH

Samuel Appiah is a Ghanaian and currently the Programme Officer in the Finance and Administrative Unit at the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). He joined the Institute in May, 2016.

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JIMM CHICK FOMUNJONG

Jimm Chick Fomunjong, Cameroonian, joined WACSI in May 2018 as the Head of the Knowledge Management and Communication Units of the Institute. He has over ten years’ experience as a journalist and a development communications expert. He has a vast experience in supporting African organisations to strengthen their internal and external communications, building and sustaining relationships with the media and, leveraging on the power of social media to promote their mission. He is also excellent at supporting organisations to set up and operationalise functional communications and knowledge management systems. He has a deep passion and expertise in supporting Africans and African civil society organisations to document their praxis, share and learn from experiences documented from the African civil society sector.

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FRANCK A. SOMBO

Franck Sombo is a development practitioner with the drive to lead self and others to influence productivity and efficiency. His work involves supporting organisations to develop strategic plans, design monitoring and evaluation systems, develop and use relevant performance measurement tools to track progress, assess organizational growth and institutionalise learning. Franck has eight years of experience working with WACSI where he currently serves as the Head, Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning. His academic qualifications include Masters in Organisations’ and Projects’ Management, and in Business Sciences and a High National Diploma in Finance and Accounting.

Franck is a Fellow of the International Program for Development Evaluation Training (IPDET) and a graduate of the Graduate Training Institute (GTI) - Ghana with specialization in Strategic Management and Corporate Leadership. He has a rich experience in Project Management, Capacity Development, Strategic planning, Data Analytics, Monitoring and Evaluation, Training and Facilitation, Mentoring and Coaching among others.

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OMOLARA T. BALOGUN

Omolara is a development practitioner and advocacy strategist with over 15 years of progressive experience in development programming targeted at strengthening civil society in West Africa.

She joined WACSI in November 2009 as a Regional Advocacy Consultant and later became the first Policy Advocacy Officer of the Institute in 2010.

She was promoted to Head of the Policy Influencing and Advocacy (PIA) Unit in 2015. As the Head of the PIA unit, Omolara offers strategic direction to the Institutes’ ambitions to connect and convene groups of organised and organic civil society actors; and influence regional and global discourses on crosscutting policy issues including—civil society regulations, sustainable development goals, civic space and enabling environment, aid effectiveness, gender equality, and civil society accountability.

Previously, Omolara served as a Programmes Associate with the Women in Peace and Security Network-Africa (WIPSEN-Africa), where she worked with her team to design and implement pan-African programmes on—multidimensional peace support operations and gender mainstreaming in security sector reform in Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Liberia.

She also served as a Service Development Marshal at TVQ Consulting Group, a customer service firm focused on designing strategic customer relationship and business growth plans for private and public financial institutions in Nigeria.

Omolara is a social justice advocate, a network weaver, and a convener. She has a postgraduate degree in Peace and Conflict Studies; a degree in International Relations and History, from the University of Ibadan and Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria respectively.

She also holds executive certificates in Behavioral Science in Public Policy from Harvard University Executive Education in Cambridge and in Citizen Advocacy from the Coady International Institute, St Francis Xavier University in Canada.

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KWABENA KRODUAH

Kwabena Kroduah is a Ghanaian and currently heads the Finance Unit at the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). He joined the Institute in January 2008.

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CHARLES KOJO VANDYCK

Charles currently serves as the Head of the Capacity Development Unit at the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). Charles has over 10 years of experience working in international development and social justice issues in Africa. Charles has expertise in strengthening civil society and public agencies including the design and implementation of governance and leadership programmes, development of knowledge pieces and policy advice. Charles was the founding Board Chair of Innovation for Change (i4C)-Hub Afrique, as well as the founding member of the International Consortium on Closing Civic Space (iCon), an initiative of the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington DC. Charles currently serves as the Member of the Governing Board (Coordination Collective) of Africans Rising. He is a Member of the Development Studies Association, United Kingdom. Charles is a 2017 Stanford University Fellow for Nonprofit Leaders and a certified Change the Game Resource Mobilisation Trainer.

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NANA ASANTEWA AFADZINU

Nana Afadzinu is a Ghanaian and currently serves as the Executive Director of the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI). She joined the Institute in October 2010.

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