Category Archives: Uncategorized

#CSOs, Capacity Building, SDGS, Uncategorized

COMMUNIQUE AT THE 2024 SOUTH-SOUTH REGIONAL CONFERENCE FOR CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANIZATIONS IN CALABAR, NIGERIA.

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By Global Rights Nigeria

COMMUNIQUE

Issued at the 2024 South-South Regional Conference on Improving Regulatory Environment for CSO Operations
in Nigeria

Calabar,

Cross River State – Nigeria

Cross River State – Nigeria

Background

Global Rights in collaboration with the Community
of Practice (COP) on Civic Space Strengthening and the European

Union Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS convened

the 2024 South-South Regional Conference on Improving Regulatory Environment for CSO Operations
in Nigeria. The theme of the conference
was “Forging Partnerships for Sustainable Operational Environment for
Non-Profit Sector in Nigeria”. The hybrid event took place in Calabar, the Cross River State capital on the 27th of June
2024 with over 200 in-person

participants and over 50 virtual participants.

The conference was primarily focused on driving critical conversations among stakeholders on ways of improving the regulatory environment for
the non-profit sector in Nigeria particularly to highlight
the need for the harmonization of the CSO regulatory framework at the subnational levels to address
issues such as the multiplicity of registration requirements with different MDAs. Also, the conference

further sought to facilitate a shared understanding of the opportunities in extant laws that could enhance CSO operations at the subnational level.
The Conference reflected on efforts

to strengthen the civic space and
improve the regulatory environment in
South-South Nigeria, particularly through the project presently implemented by Global Rights in collaboration with the Community of Practice

on Civic Space Strengthening with support from the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and the
ECOWAS.

Participants at the conference:

Acknowledged
the pivotal role CSOs play in our society; agreeing that significant challenges
and overbearing standards mark the landscape in which CSOs operate in Nigeria, particularly the regulatory multiplicity and registration requirements. They agreed to leverage a multi-sectoral

stakeholder engagement approach in facilitating a model framework
for improving the regulatory environment for CSO operations in Nigeria.

Reckoned sustained support of the European Union
Delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS and commended

the efforts of Global Rights

and the Community of Practice

(COP) on Civic Space
Strengthening and sustaining conversations
to promote an improved regulatory environment for CSOs in Nigeria.
Underscored the need for the harmonization of regulatory frameworks at the subnational level.
The pivotal role of the legislature in facilitating an improved regulatory environment for CSO operation in Nigeria.

Furthermore, the conference recognize

The importance of forging partnerships between the Arms of government and civil society
organizations in strengthening the ethos of democracy in Nigeria.
That the
multiplicity of registration requirements serves as a major bottleneck to the
operation of CSOs, especially at subnational levels.

The imperativeness of improving CSO regulatory framework through effective policy

and legislations
That the convergence
of processes for registration eliminates multiplicity, reducing costs
and enhancing accountability and transparency. This partnership will
further infer trust, confidence, and credibility on the State.
The imperative of co-creating regulatory framework with inputs of civil society organizations.

That the Constitutional right to freedom of association lies central to the efforts of CSOs to improve

their ability to operate in Nigeria.


●


The limitation CSOs registered at the subnational level face in accessing funds and attracting

recognition from financial institutions.


●


That CSOs in the South-South region face the particular challenge of accessing government

offices to obtain relevant documents necessary for obtaining funding.


●


The challenges

posed by inadequate resources and funding of the CSO sector.


●

The lack of institutionalized framework for
coordination of CSO interventions at the subnational level.


●


The recent and
developing practice of excluding State
and Local Government registered CSOs from access to

bank accounts and, by
implication, other financial services. This
is a result of SCUML’s decision to discontinue its
onboarding/issuing of SCUML’s certificate to State/Local Government registered CSOs.

Conference

Resolutions

Having acknowledged the value CSOs bring and the role they play in fostering democracy, promoting

social justice, driving development and facilitating social change, and recognizing the overbearing

standards and regulatory bottlenecks that hinder the effective operation of CSOs, the conference

resolved as follows:


1)


The governments including the executive, legislature, and judiciary in the south-south region

will work in harmony with the civil
society organizations to adopt a regulatory framework that allows a single MDA

to register CSOs
in the States – such a model will promote the accessibility needed for improving

the regulatory environment for CSO operations.


2)


All stakeholders including the regulators, CSOs, legislature, and donor agencies commit to drive the process of developing a model harmonization policy or law for CSO registration
requirements at the state level
with input from all relevant stakeholders which will not only enhance
the operational effectiveness and efficiency of the sector but also provide opportunity to the state government to coordinate CSOs interventions within the state better.


3)

To promote

holistic inclusion in efforts to improve the regulatory environment for CSOs including paying attention to key actors, gender,
disability and other parameters

for inclusion including

access to bank accounts and other financial services by State/Local Government

registered CSOs).

Conference

Recommendations

The Conference consequently proffered the following recommendations:


1.


A mutually beneficial relationship between the arms and three tiers of government with civil society organizations playing pivotal roles in national development.


2.


Harmonizing regulatory
compliance requirements and identifying
a unanimously agreed single body responsible for registering CSOs in the State to avoid multiplicity of registration and
regulations.


3.


Improved collaboration between the State and CSOs to foster the implementation of their
plans and programs,

including financing CSOs.


4.

Enhanced collaboration between

the State and CSOs to drive the process of developing a model

framework that would

improve the regulatory environment for CSO operations in Nigeria.


5.

Deemphasizing

the multiplicity of registration requirements within the State,

to ensure accessibility, centralization, and simpler
regulatory compliance

requirements.


6.

The legislature should

work in concert with the office of the Commissioner of Justice to propose a bill to confer body corporate to organizations registered at the state and local government
levels based on the provisions of the 1999 Constitution, the judicial precedent
set by the Court of Appeal and the principle of federalism operating in Nigeria.


7.


An amendment to the Constitution to remove the ambiguity of Item 32 Part 1 of the second

schedule. The focus

on Item 32 should be examined through

this lens to ensure simpler registration and regulatory requirements for CSO operations.

Conclusion

The 2024 South-South Regional Conference on Improving Regulatory Environment for CSO Operations

in Nigeria was a great opportunity for continued engagements between the
various arms of government, donor communities, the private sector, and Civil Society Organizations. The conference

allowed the stakeholders to define a model for facilitating enhanced

collaboration between the regulators, policy/lawmakers, and CSOs.

It is expected that if adopted, it will lessen

the burden associated

with compliance. The Conference gave all stakeholders the opportunity to discuss their concerns

and proffer sustainable
solutions to improving the regulatory framework for a
sustained CSO operational environment.

The participants at the 2024 South-South Regional Conference on Improving Regulatory Environment

for CSO Operations in Nigeria, outlined

in this communiqué the need to improve

the regulatory environment for CSO operations in Nigeria.

Conference Participants

The conference served as a
convergence point, bringing together an array of stakeholders,
including civil society organizations, government representatives
including the office of the Governor of Cross River, Office of the Chief Judge of Cross
River State, Office of the Secretary to the Cross
River State Government, Office of the First Lady of Cross River State, the Clerk of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Cross River State House Committee on Due Process, Anti-Corruption, International Donor Support,

and SDGs, Cross River
State Ministry of Women Affairs, Akwa Ibom
State Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare,

Cross River State Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs,

Cross River State Ministry of Social Welfare and
Development, Cross River State Ministry of International Donor Coordination, Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), House of Representative Committee on Civil Society

Organizations and Development Matters, and donor agencies including the European Union Commission and Ford Foundation.

Civil Society Organizations and Networks that participated in the south-south regional conference
include:


1.


African Child Initiative


2.


African Potential Developers Initiative


3.


Arc Initiative Africa


4.


Advocacy for Women with Disabilities Initiative


5.


Advocates of Peace, Nature and Gender Justice (APNAG)


6.


Akwamfon
Sustainable Community

Association


7.


Alive for Health and Progress Initiative


8.


Atycare Initiative


9.


A Well-informed Adolescent Initiative


10.


Sustainable Movement for Equity


11.


Basic Foundation for Socio-Economic
Development of Rural Women and Youths


12.


BenCare Foundation


13.


Behind Bars Human Rights Foundation


14.


Bestway Initiative

for Health Education and Self-sufficiency


15.


Biakwan Light Green Initiative


16.


Biodiversity Rescue Club


17.


Breaking

Barriers Against Persons with Disabilities and Women


18.


Centre for Creative

Development Strategies (CCDS)


19.


Center for Development Support Initiatives (CEDSI)


20.


Centre for Justice

Empowerment and Development


21.


Centre for Healthworks, Development and Research Initiative (CHEDRES)


22.


Centre for Peace
Education and Community

Development


23.


Child Protection

Network (CPN) Nigeria, Cross River State


24.


Citizen Community Aid and Development initiative


25.


Citizen Solution Network


26.


Civil Society National Self-Regulation Council (CNSRC)


27.


Clean Technology

Hub


28.


CLEEN Foundation


29.


Coalition

of Youth Advocates on Electioneering in Nigeria


30.


Community of Practice on Civic Space Strengthening


31.


Community Resource Development Foundation (CREDEF)


32.


COMPPART

Foundation for Justice and Peace Building


33.


Connected

Advocacy


34.


Cross River State Civil Society Network


35.


CSO Accountability and Transparency Initiative (CATI)


36.


Development Research and Synergy Initiative


37.


Ebase Sam Foundation


38.


Edem Children Foundation (ECF)


39.


Egbema

Clean and Green Initiative


40.


Emerging

Gender Plus Outreach Team (EGOT)


41.


Environmental Development Initiative (EDI)


42.


FACICP Disability Plus


43.


Fringe Voices Development Foundation


44.


Frontier

for Peace Advocacy and Governance Initiative


45.


Forther

Girls Empowerment organization


46.


Gender and Development Action


47.


Girls Power Initiative (GPI) Calabar


48.


Global Rights


49.


Go Learners


50.


Great Step Initiative


51.


Green Concern for Development


52.


Green Hands International for Health Development


53.


Greenlife Organization


54.


Green Vision for Community

Development Initiative


55.


Habitat Protection

and Sustainable Development Initiative


56.


Hazethal

Women Foundation (HWF)


57.


Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF)


58.


Hope Ability

Empowerment Initiative


59.


Hope for Coastal Women Empowerment Initiative


60.


IBDN


61.


Initiative

for Community Development (ICD)


62.


Initiative for Contemporary Rights


63.


Jeksume Foundation Nigeria


64.


Justice Development

and Peace Caritas, Calabar


65.


Lawrence

Igbudu Foundation


66.


League of Women Voters of Nigeria (NILOWV)


67.


Lekah Development Foundation


68.


Lemu Charity Foundation


69.


Life Assurance

for Future Initiative


70.


Life Empowerment Foundation


71.


Lighthope

Succor Worldwide initiative


72.


Liman Iwara Foundation

(LIFO)


73.


LITE-Africa


74.

MAAG Africa


75.


Milestone

Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment


76.

MIND Initiative


77.


Mirabel

Centre


78.


Neighbourhood Environment Watch (NEW) Foundation


79.


New Nigeria

Foundation


80.


Noble Classic


81.


Ofure Centre for Peace and Development


82.


Omoye Women and Youth Foundation


83.


Onyx Foundation Africa


84.


Panacea

for Development and Infrastructural Challenges for African Initiative (PADIC Africa)


85.


Partners For Peace in the Niger Delta


86.


Partnership

for Social and Development Initiative (P4SEDI)


87.


Peace Point Development


88.


Peace Mindset

Ambassadors


89.


Policy Alert


90.


Preventive Youths for Empowerment Network


91.


Psychomodelling Health and Wellness Initiative


92.


Quest For Growth and Development Foundation


93.


Rainbow Watch and Development Centre


94.


Rebuilders Foundation


95.


Refugee ICT Livelihood Initiative


96.


Rights Academy


97.


Rights and

Humanity Development Initiative


98.


Rubies Development Foundation


99.


Safe Space Development Foundation


100.

SBM Intelligence


101.


Search for Common Ground


102.


Spaces for Change


103.


Sterling Diamond Foundation


104.


Support for Girls Boys and Women Initiative (SUGBW)


105.


Support Persons in Trauma Initiative


106.

Surge Africa Organization 107.Sustainable Movement for Equity


108.


The Green Child International Organization


109.


Transparency Elderly Care


110.


VaccidriveNG


111.


Vitonia Lead International Foundation


112.


WANEP


113.


We the People


114.


White Ribbon Alliance

for Safe motherhood


115.


Women Assist Foundation


116.


Women Empowerment and Rights Initiative (WERI)


117.


Women for Environmental Protection and Food
Security


118.


Women in Disabilities for Innovation


119.


Women Youths and Aged Succour Foundation


120.


World Leadership Network


121.


Youths and Environmental Advocacy Center


122.


Youth for Change and Social Life Development Foundation


123.


Youth Torch
Initiative (YOTI)

Uncategorized

AUDIT VISIT TO KAANI COMMUNITY IN RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

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By Smith Nwokocha


The team from GIFSEP, LEKEH,
SWAYA and Quest For Growth and Development Foundation visited Kaani Community, in Khana Local Government Area in Ogoni Land, Rivers State in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria. The essence of the visit is to ascertain the level of
electrification or the status of power usage in the community. On the ground, our findings, are that there is no Power or Electrification of any sort in the Community by the Government, whether State or Federal, unfortunately, this is
an Oil producing community in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, and it is part of the communities that generate revenue for the State and Federal Governments
of Nigeria.

However, it is worth noting
that, this is a similar situation in most Oil-producing Communities, which are in most cases under-developed, have no jobs, high level of unemployment, lack good quality infrastructure, no social amenities, if there are, so little.

Having identified these gaps
in Powering up the Community, the Team with support from 350.Org Africa (AfrikaVuka) will ensure Solar light installation in this Community, to enable the community members to feel the power, use it to stabilize their businesses, in the market and the youths and women will be taught some of the technicality of installing solar, so that they can manage it themselves and probably start a
business in that light, hence green jobs for youths and women of the community, this will strive development and sustaining businesses and mitigate heatwave
from the impact of climate change. Schools were visited, including the Ken Saro Wiwa Polytechnic in Bori, Ogoni Land.


Advocacy, SDGS, Uncategorized, Youth

PRESS RELEASE: EXPULSION OF STUDENTS FOR PEACEFUL PROTEST AGAINST TUITION HIKE.

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Global Rights calls on the management of the University of Ibadan to immediately rescind its
expulsion of 3 students – namely Olamide Gbadegeshin, Aduwo Ayodele, and Nice Linus for
engaging in a peaceful protest against the sudden hike in tuition fees by the University’s
management.
The 3 students, alongside one Olorunfemi Adeyeye, were apprehended by army officers while
protesting the fee increase at the inauguration of the Student Union government on May 13,
2024.
While their action may have posed an inconvenience to the administration of the university,
extant laws clearly prescribe their right to protest peacefully. The 1999 Constitution of the
Federal Republic of Nigeria, as amended, provides great latitude for expressions and actions
that constitute peaceful protest, specifically, the rights to freedom of expression, assembly,
association, and movement.
It is also a well-recognized fact that peaceful protests, especially by young people, have often
been an effective means of bringing about positive social change in democratic societies all over
the World. A university of the calibre of the University of Ibadan should, therefore, not be averse
to its students exercising this right.
It is our considered opinion that educational institutions are afforded a vantage position in
helping to build a rising generation of civic actors who have an increasingly important role in
entrenching Nigeria’s democratic roots.
Recognizing this important responsibility, one of the Nation’s premier educational institutions
should not set a bad precedent by truncating these students’ right and access to education;
rather, it should seek to allay their concerns and those of others who are rightly worried about
the ability of Nigeria’s children and youth to access quality education in the current economic
climate.
We recognize that the University of Ibadan has a duty to maintain its educational standards and
responsibilities to its tutors while navigating the harsh economic terrain, but surely, the
university should understand why students will feel the need to protest a significant increase in
tuition fees.
Consequently, we ask:
a. That any plans to expel Olamide Gbadegeshin of the Institute of African Studies, Aduwo
Ayodele of the History Department (200 level) and Nice Linus from the University of
Ibadan be immediately jettisoned.

b. The students should be allowed to resume their studies without any fear of intimidation,
harassment, or reprisals from the management and staff of the University of Ibadan.
c. The Security agents who arrested them and Olorunfemi Adeyeye on May 13, 2024,
because they peacefully protested, should issue them a swift and unreserved apology.
d. That the University of Ibadan lead the way for other tertiary educational institutions in
Nigeria by engaging mechanisms that encourage ample and robust interactions with
students.
On our part, we stand solidly behind dissenting voices who choose to participate in their
governance and seek social justice utilizing their freedom of expression through Peaceful Protest.

Damilola Decker

Global Rights

Advocacy, Financial Institutions, Oil and Gas, SDGS, Uncategorized

STATEMENT TO THE MEDIA ABOUT THE WB-IMF ANNUAL MEETINGS AT MARRAKECH, MOROCCO BY FADHEL KABOUB

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Dr. Fadhel Kaboub at the middle


October 14, 2023

The WB and IMF were created in 1944 when most of Africa was still colonized. There was no fundamental change made to these institutions when they met in Nairobi 50 years ago, and no such changes were announced in Marrakesh that would lead me to believe that the global financial architecture would be decolonized any time soon.

This neocolonial global financial architecture has delivered exactly what it was designed to do, which is:

1) to extract cheap raw materials for the Global North

2) to create large consumer markets for the industrial output of the Global North, and

3) to outsource obsolete technologies and low value-added manufacturing to the Global South.

This neocolonial global financial architecture has failed us economically and ecologically, so we cannot expect it to be the same architecture that will solve our problems today.

The WB and IMF did not indicate any interest in decolonizing African economies or addressing the roots of our external debt problems. We didn’t hear any announcements about prioritizing strategic investments in food sovereignty and agroecology, or investments in renewable energy infrastructure and clean cooking technology for deployment in Africa, or investments in pan-Africain high value-added industrialization.

World Bank and IMF leaders did not even send any staff members to represent them on civil society-sponsred panels that they were invited to, which shows a complete disregard and lack of respect to any constructive criticism and alternative policy proposals.

This should galvanize efforts across the Global South to build alternative financial institutions that would challenge the hegemony of the global trade, investment, and financial architectures, and would render the World Bank and IMF redundant institutions that must either be radically transformed or dismantled.

Fadhel Kaboub is an Associate Professor of economics at Denison University (on leave), and the president of the Global Institute for Sustainable Prosperity, He has recently served as Under-Secretary-General for Financing for Development at the Organisation of Southern Cooperation in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Dr. Kaboub is an expert on designing public policies to enhance monetary and economic sovereignty in the Global South, build resilience, and promote equitable and sustainable prosperity. His recent work focuses on Just Transition, Climate Finance, and transforming the global trade, finance, and investment architecture. His most recent co-authored publication is Just Transition: A Climate, Energy, and Development Vision for Africa (May 2023, published by the Independent Expert Group on Just Transition and Development.). He has held a number of research affiliations with the Levy Economics Institute (NY), the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University (MA), the Economic Research Forum (Cairo), Power Shift Africa (Nairobi), and the Center for Strategic Studies on the Maghreb (Tunis). He is currently based in Nairobi, Kenya and is working on climate finance and development policies in Africa. You can follow him on Twitter @FadhelKaboub

#Health, Health And Adolescent, Health and Family Planning, SDGS, Uncategorized

RIVERS STATE MINISTRY OF HEALTH CELEBRATES WORLD CONTRACEPTION DAY 2023

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Rivers State Ministry of Health Team with the Hon. Commissioner of Health.

By Smith Nwokocha

Celebrating World Contraception Day 2023 by Rivers State Government Ministry of Health and partners ( Federal Ministry of Health Nigeria World Health Organization (WHO) DKT International Society for Family Health, Nigeria Marie Stropes Clinton Health Access Initiative etc) at Emarid Hotel, Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

With the theme: “Power of Options”.

Welcome song by Students from school of Public Health and welcome address by the Director Public Health and Disease Control. Data Presentation by the State Family Planning Coordinator.
Speech by the Hon. Commissioner of Health, Rivers State (Adaeze Oreh) and she unveiled Family Planning Commodities donated by DKT International. Vote of Thanks by the State Family Planning Coordinator.

#WorldContraceptionDay

#WorldContraceptionDay2023

Politics, SDGS, Social Political, Uncategorized

PRESS STATEMENT: EiE NIGERIA’S 12TH ANNIVERSARY SYMPOSIUM ‘ON DEBATES AND DEMOCRACY’!

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Janet Brown, Tunde Fashola, SAN and Segun Adeniyi for EiE Nigeria’s 12th Anniversary Symposium

‘‘We must begin to imbibe a culture by which those who aspire to lead our people are subjected to a rigorous process of public debates that will assess their suitability on objective criteria, rather than the religion they practice or where they come from.’’

– Olusegun Adeniyi

(Chairman, ThisDay Editorial Board)  

Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria will host a symposium titled ‘On Debates and Democracy’ on Tuesday, April 5, 2022 at 10am at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja to commemorate its 12th anniversary. The focus of the conversation is to explore how political debates contribute to democracy via citizens’ engagement; the necessity of a legal requirement; the role of the media and the role of political parties.

The symposium will feature a keynote address by Janet Brown, the Executive Director of the Commission on Presidential Debates (CPD), the body that hosts all presidential debates in the US. In her capacity as the Executive Director of CPD, our keynote speaker, Janet Brown, has directed the organisation of 33 presidential and vice presidential debates, and provided technical support to debate groups in over 40 countries.

The event will also feature a media panel with different debate moderators – Maupe Ogun-Yusuf, Ngozi Alaegbu, Reuben Abati, Seun Okinbaloye, and Mac Imoni Amarere – in conversation with Segun Adeniyi; and a debate panel with Babatunde Fashola, Federal Minister of Works & Housing and former Lagos State governor; Mercy Tosin Ayodele, 2018 Osun governorship election candidate; Eddie Emessiri, Executive Secretary, Nigerian Election Debate Group (NEDG), and ‘Yemi Adamolekun, Executive Director, Enough is Enough Nigeria (EiE).

Mr Fashola’s role is particularly important as it is a classic case study of the power of debates. He’s the “most debated” politician in Nigeria’s history, going from an ‘unknown’ chief of staff to a candidate to be reckoned with, the more he participated in debates.

Register on Bit.ly/EiEOnDebates, and join us in-person or online TOMORROW!

###

Enough is Enough Nigeria (www.eie.ng) is a network of individuals and organisations committed to instituting a culture of good governance and public accountability in Nigeria through active citizenship. EiE’s #RSVP – Register | Select | Vote | Protect is Nigeria’s longest running get-out-the vote campaign. EiE was an integral part of the #OccupyNigeria movement in 2012 and continues to drive the #OpenNASS and #OfficeOftheCitizen campaigns.

Health And Adolescent, SDGS, Uncategorized, Youth

4TH QUARTER ADOLESCENT YOUTH PROGRAMME (AYP) TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP (TWG) AND FAMILY LIFE HEALTH EDUCATION (FLHE) DISSEMINATION MEETING @ RIVERS STATE MINISTRY OF JUSTICE HALL

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The Technical Working Group and FLHE Teachers

TECHNICAL WORKING GROUP FOR ADOLESCENT MEETING

Held at the Rivers State Ministry of Justice Hall.

  Thursday 2nd December, 2021. Exactly, at 9:00am.

The focus of the meeting was to share update(s) of the final copy of the harmonized action plan, to plan for the 2022 International Adolescent Health Week and to disseminate FLHE finding from SOME implementation.

The meeting was moderated by Mrs. Mbreba Wokoma; Opening prayer was taken by Mrs. Edith Chinago Francis of C.S.S Okom and then, introduction of participants.

Opening remarks by Chairperson (Prof. Akani): appreciates the Technical Working Group for their efforts dealing with the Federal Ministry of Health and its now time to focus back to work and teachers present in today’s meeting are welcome. Teachers are very important, for them to deal with the Adolescents, therefore, we are looking at Teachers as Role Models and helpers that changes the personality of Adolescents for good. The Chairperson urged all Teachers to be part of the discussion and encouraged the Technical Working Group to see other dimension of Adolescent issues. It is not the division, but synergy between the Ministries (Ministry of Health and Ministry of Education). We see that every child belongs to everybody.

Prof. Nwadiuto Akani (Chairperson TWG) in her opening remarks

The reading of the Minute; was done by Mrs. Mbreba Wokoma. Hence, the minute was moved as a working document for the Adolescent working group by Mrs. Joy Nwamaka Joseph and seconded by Captain Dabota.

Sometimes in October, the FMOH (Federal Ministry of Health) visited the State to strengthen the issues the Adolescents face and to achieve this (during the meeting with FMOH, some issues were identified that Adolescents faces, one of such issue is; 1) Teenage Pregnancy and Abortion. So, how do we mitigate and solve this issue, apart from identifying the challenges. There are implementing partners to ensure these objectives are achieved through the stipulated strategies. There three major concerns for the Adolescents, which are: 1) Teenage Pregnancy and Abortion. 2)Rise in Cultism 3) Prevalent Drug Abuse among Adolescent.

Mrs. Mbreba Wokoma (Desk Officer For Adolescent) Moderating the Meeting

Mrs. Njideka of the Federal Ministry of Education suggested, that Ministry of Education should be actively involved in the Technical Working Group and some Schools have Health Facilities, such facilities should be made Adolescent friendly centres.

Chairperson added that, we are trying to see what we can focus on to reduce the challenges Adolescents face, also participating persons/reps, should ensure that information at the Technical Working Group is taking or reported back to their organizations. We are not working in isolation; we are working with anybody and everybody.

Mr. Dennis, added, if we want to talk about “Cultism”, we should know that school’s cultism is different from cultism outside school premises. We have to strategically position advocacy to the leaders of these cult groups.

The Chairperson responded: we need to have “Parental Engagement”, talk to our parents, so that they can talk to the consciences of their children. And then, work-out strategies to talk to those involved in Cultism (the cultists themselves), so that they don’t attack back. First, we need God and then, we need Parents to be bold.

Mrs. Njideka (Federal Ministry of Education) making valuable contributions

One of our colleagues added that, we have identified Parents and Cult Leaders, next, we need to use the Media (Radio) through regular jingles to sensitize the public. Also, Church/Religious Leaders, we need to talk to them as well. In approaching Cult Leaders, we should address them as “Social Organization Leaders or Youth Leader”, let’s be subtle in our approach. Most Cult Leaders are violent and arrogant in nature.

A Contribution from a Teacher; the teacher is bordered about the steady increase in cult activities. We need to give these youths/Adolescents information that will help them, including students and we need to start from grass-roots (primary schools-class rooms).

Chairperson’s response: Teachers are going to be our “foot-solders”, to ensure the goal of eliminating cultism in Rivers State is achieved. “What Teachers give the Society, is what the Society will build on”. And, as it stands, we cannot afford to do without the Education sector which includes the Teachers.

Smith Nwokocha P.RO.2 TWG Sharing insights on fight against Cultism

Mrs. Njideka (FMOE), she emphasized that, we should look at the pressure groups, they have a lot of influences on the Adolescents. Another participant suggested we look at “Social Media”, because a lot of Adolescents spend their time on the phone, browsing and engaging on Social Media.

Smith Nwokocha (P.R.O 2), suggested that; Traditional Rulers should be engaged in achieving the fight against Cultism. Dr. Chidi, was of the opinion that, we form three groups and breakout and discuss these issues.

Furthermore, Dr. Mrs. Smith, added that, in summary, the out-listed plan is the actual plan and we are here to identify any intervention plan to add up to the existing plan.

Dr. Mrs. Smith Iroro (Representing Permanent Secretary-Rivers State Ministry of Health)

Jennifer Amadi (Vice Chairperson), our discussion should be based on the final plan. National Orientation Agency (NOA) Rep; said they are doing a lot and are involved in Community Engagement, Mobilization and Advocacy.

Next on the Agenda is “2022 International Adolescent Health Week”; Mrs. Wendy Wokoma, said, this will happen on the 3rd week of March, 20th – 26th, 2022. Youth Ambassadors will be recruited and the theme is “Transition: Laying Foundation for Adolescent Development”. Plan for screening (HIV/AIDS screening/Mental Health Check) for Adolescents in schools and out of school. Carry out activities to create awareness.

Edidiong Etim (Clinton Health Access Initiative-CHAI) during her presentation

Edidiong and Dr. Mrs. Nwamaka Joseph presented on FLHE Programme (CHAI supported Federal Ministry of Education on the expanded FLHE curriculum in Nigeria).

There are three stages of implementation: Experience in implementing the FLHEs in Schools, The Awareness on HIV/AIDS, to see how the curriculum is accepted in schools and then, the Background, The Expanded CSE Overview.

A pilot study of the Effectiveness of an Expanded Family Life Health Education on Adolescents 10-19years in Rivers State as the case maybe. The highlights were focused on the following; The Expanded CSE Overview, problem statement, background on FLHE Curriculum in Nigeria, study rationale. Then, Study Methodology; Results and Findings, Study Assumptions and Limitations, Success and Challenges, Key Lessons Learned, Next Steps and Recommendations.

Teacher sharing Experience Moments:  

Teacher from C.S.S. Oroworokwu: FLHE Experience; The Principal appreciates the programme and it has been a big-time impact for the students. The students are excited and even when they have personal issues, they meet the Teachers for counseling. Challenges faced; Covid-19 was the core part of the challenges in implementing the FLHE. Generally, the programme has been good. Counseling has improved. The success of FLHE cannot be over-emphasized.

C.S.S Oroworukwo Teachers in the Teacher sharing Experience Session

C.S.S. kom-Kom Teacher Experience: FLHE is a right to every child, looking at what it is giving out. The issue of Cultism, etc, the challenges fall back on FLHE. Success story; students have learnt to develop actual and positive views, especially in the social space (social media). FLHE has helped students to correct these areas, students make healthy decisions, correct information and it has inculcated in them self-esteem and the students now know when to say NO! It has equally helped students to know when to play and when not to play. Possibly, these teachings/FLHE should be extended to other classes of the junior sections apart from the examination classes and the boys should be given attention as well.

Head, Rivers Media for Health and Family Planning; added that, let’s look for 21st century ways to groom our children including our boys. A lot is happening to the Adolescents.

C.S.S. Aluu Teacher Experience: FLHE Programme created awareness among staff and students alike. FLHE sharpens and broaden knowledge of teachers on sexual education.

Edidiong re-emphasized that, discussion should be on continuous learning of FLHE in Schools and also, discuss on improved coordination of Ministry of Health, Ministry of Education and other relevant MDAs on Adolescents health in the State.

Chairperson, appreciates all for their contributions. She reiterates that we look out for Sponsors for sustainability of FLHE.  Also, let’s start with “Health Education Compulsory”. Therefore, we need to start by making it compulsory at Teachers Training College. Parents are not responsible for the gap of knowledge sadly enough. Religiously, that’s how parents are groomed. We need to start talking and engaging our religious Leaders, because that’s also where learning starts from.

Chairperson further stretched that teachers also need the skills to be able to teach and impact Adolescents. CHAI can make this representation and the Ministry of Education will maintain it. Also, Conflict resolution needs to be taught to the students. Part of the challenges of Adolescents face, could be traced to “Decision-Making Skills”, they need to be equipped effectively in this area. Skills in decision-making, should be as a matter of urgency, inculcated to our young ones, our society will be sane. However, we should try as much as possible, to get heads of schools to participate and champion this programme for sustainability.

Mrs. Nwamaka Joseph (FLHE Coordinator-Rivers State Ministry of Education)

Mrs. Nwamaka Joseph added that of four (4) states, Rivers state wished to stand alone on the push for FLHE. Most of the teachers, especially those passionate, are doing well, because they have been trained and of course, learnt the methodology in teaching FLHE. If FLHE is actually standing alone, students will be examined and know their stand. As such, FLHE should stand alone and not integrate.

Mrs Njideka further suggested, what we should be doing as a country is to build the capacity of teachers. If FLHE is integrated, it is easier to build capacity for teachers.

Jennifer Amadi’s contribution on the linkage of schools; we can also look at SGBV, though in Rivers State, a lot of NGOs are already doing work in this regard. Helping Schools respond to SGBV issues through Primary Health Centres facilities.

Jennifer Amadi (Vice-Chairperson of TWG giving an input)

Mrs Uloma in her comment, said; we don’t have enough facilities at the Primary Health Centres, unfortunately. Most Adolescents need confidentiality, they need respect and privacy and with these, you can get any information from them. 23 LGA’s in the State, have two (2) to three (3) Focal Persons and they visit schools, but the linkage facilities are still an issue and it’s challenging. Some of the issues, includes; STIs, Post-Abortion issues etc. In the State, we have over 4000 (plus) Secondary Schools and how many Teachers are taught the FLHE Programme/training. The Primary Health Board is ensuring that facilities in the Health Centres are Adolescent friendly.

Mrs. Wendy Wokoma, in her comment; she emphasized that; “Let’s have a positive outlook about Adolescents’ ‘. Let’s see Adolescents as part of the solution. We need to also have data, to be able to evaluate Adolescent performance in relation to linkage.

Mrs Njideka, added that, Students/Adolescents cannot be referred to facilities without consent of their parents/guardian, because there are counselors in the schools, especially, the in-schools for Adolescents.

Edidiong remarks; Most of the feedback(s) are just remarkable.

Chairperson remarks; We still have a problem on how to coordinate the linkage, but we are making headways.

Closing Remarks by Dr. Mrs. Smith; Several issues have been raised. The FLHE Programme and the needs for Facilities. We will start small, but we will get there. We pray for everyone to get to their destination safely. Thank you.

Closing prayer by Mrs. Mary Obisike.

Audience
Dr. Chidi of Institute of Virology asking pertinent questions during the Q&A Session
Mrs. Wendy Wokoma adding thoughts that we should have a positive outlook about Adolescents
Some Technical Working Group Members and FLHE Teachers
ICT, Uncategorized

DIGITAL IDENTITY STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT IN RIVERS STATE

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Mr. Adeboye Adegoke of Paradigm Initiative sited next to Mrs. Uche Chigbo (Acting General Manager and Senior Special Assistant to DG NIMC) during her presentation

Smith Nwokocha Reports:

DIGITAL IDENTITY STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT.
Organized by: NIMC, PARADIGM INITIATIVES AND PIND FOUNDATION.

The event held at Visa Karena Hotel in Port Harcourt on the 27th July, 2021. At exactly 10:00am, the audience were sited and the key Organizers from Paradigm Initiatives staff including NIMC staff present introduced themselves. The event was moderated by Mr. Adeboye Adegoke and assisted by Khajidah El-Usman.

During the engagement proper, the NIMC Acting General Manager and Senior Special Assistant to the DG (Mrs. Uche Chigbo) took up the floor and did an excellent presentation that clarifys NIMC’s activities in Nigeria. She emphasized that; NIMC mandate, is centred around providing fundamental legal identity which includes Nigerians in diaspora. NIMC is an Agency of Government under the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy.

NIMC is the provider of a secured means of authenticating the Digital Identity Tokens (NIN and Cards). Registration/Enrollment of every individual into the National Identity Database. Managing the Unique Identities of every individual living in Nigeria which includes legally foreign residents. Regulating the Nigerian Identity Sector.

NIMC FACTS AND FIGURES:
Commenced Identity Registration/Enrollment in year 2012. NIMC is for life, only the card gets expired. Enrollment for NIMC is free for first registration and a token is paid for renewal. The Enrollment is mandatory for everyone.

ENROLLMENT TARGET: Children, Adults, Diaspora, Foreign Legal Residents, Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Undocumented People.

From left The Regional Coordinator NIMC, Acting General Manager/SSA to DG NIMC, CSO Rep, Rivers State Coordinator, CSO Rep, PHWAKAWAKA Blogger

CHALLENGES: Poor funding, Connectivity, Power, Consumables and Extortion.
Cyber Insecurity is also a challenge. One key solutions for power is for CSOs to go out of there way, approach/protest PHCN on why the creeping power supply. “Security is always a moving target, there’s nothing like proof”. We need to constantly move ahead and stay updated.

ECO-SYSTEM APPROACH: Licensing over three hundred (300+) partners to aid NIN registration. For every fifty thousand (50,000) person’s, there’s an enrollment centre. NIMC has deployed a technology driven system. NIMC is pushing for “National Data Protection Law”.

NIMC captures live biometric, so you have to go to be present at the enrollment centre.

NIMC is currently present in 22 countries where NIMC registration is done. NIMC collaborate with licensed Foreign Partners for enrollment.

NIMC Mobile App can be downloaded on Google play store, if you want your mobile ID on your phone. Strategic roadmap are all outlined in NIMC’s website (www.nimc.gov.ng).

Thank you.
Q&A.

Group Photograph

Port Harcourt Wakawaka
@National Identity Management Commission
@Paradigm Initiatives
@Foundation For Partnership Initiatives in Niger Delta.

SDGS, Uncategorized

THE SUSO PROGRAMME FOR CHANGEMAKERS…Speak Out, StandOut (Call For ACTIVISTS)

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By Smith Nwokocha

Speak Up, Stand Out! – The SUSO Program For Changemakers (Monthly Stipend and Travel).


Nigerian Youth SDGs Network, Afrika Youth Movement and Center For Youth Advocacy and Development is calling for applications for its inaugural Speak Up, Stand Out (SUSO) Program. The SUSO Program aims to empower young community based social changemakers and transformers with media and information literacy knowledge, grassroots mobilisation skills to participate meaningfully in the socio-political development of their communities and influencing policies that affect youth.
The project will empower 20 Activists with the knowledge, skills and resources to organise activism to challenge issues affecting youth, develop innovative ways to engage other young people and social actors to campaign and drive social change. Activists will receive monthly technical and financial support including mini-grants to create and implement a pilot project with 25 Advocates within 12 months.
Focus Areas
Education
Employment
Governance
Peace and Security

Why Apply?

● Training and Support on youth activism, youth mobilisation, media and information literacy, etc.

● Opportunity to lead a funded project with support and resources to help you achieve success

● Opportunity to achieve your dream of creating meaningful social change in Nigeria with a team of passionate young people

● Monthly stipend and opportunity to travel within Nigeria

Who Should Apply?


● We seek applications from young activists who would be available and willing to work hard building with other young people and engaging actively in the Program for 13 months. The Program cycle begins in October 2021 and ends in October 2022. An ideal fellow should fit the profile outlined below;

● Young man or woman between 18 and 35 years who are passionate about any of these thematic areas of the Program; Education, Employment, Governance, Peace and Security

● Applicants can be students, initiators of a socially focused organisation or freelancers, but must commit at least 20 hours per week to the Program.

● Applicants must be available to participate in the Program activities, including implementation of community projects within the duration of the Program.

● Applicants must show leadership potentials and work and interact with other young people across different cities.

● Applicants must be residents in any of these three Nigerian states; Abuja, Lagos or Enugu.

Click Here to Apply: https://bit.ly/CallForACTIVISTs
The SUSO Program is implemented under the Voice Global Nigeria Influencing Grants targeting organisations and networks to strengthen their lobby and advocacy capacities including to amplify the voice of marginalised and discriminated groups.
For more details, read more on the Speak Up, Stand Out! – The SUSO For Changemakers website
For Enquiries; Kindly send an email to suso@nigerianyouthsdgs.org

A Call For ACTIVISTS
Uncategorized

DIGITAL IDENTITY STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT IN RIVERS STATE

Leave a comment
Mr. Adeboye Adegoke of Paradigm Initiative sited next to Mrs. Uche Chigbo (Acting General Manager and Senior Special Assistant to DG NIMC) during her presentation

Smith Nwokocha Reports:

DIGITAL IDENTITY STAKEHOLDERS ENGAGEMENT.
Organized by: NIMC, PARADIGM INITIATIVES AND PIND FOUNDATION.

The event held at Visa Karena Hotel in Port Harcourt on the 27th July, 2021. At exactly 10:00am, the audience were sited and the key Organizers from Paradigm Initiatives staff including NIMC staff present introduced themselves. The event was moderated by Mr. Adeboye Adegoke and assisted by Khajidah El-Usman.

During the engagement proper, the NIMC Acting General Manager and Senior Special Assistant to the DG (Mrs. Uche Chigbo) took up the floor and did an excellent presentation that clarifys NIMC’s activities in Nigeria. She emphasized that; NIMC mandate, is centred around providing fundamental legal identity which includes Nigerians in diaspora. NIMC is an Agency of Government under the Ministry of Communication and Digital Economy.

NIMC is the provider of a secured means of authenticating the Digital Identity Tokens (NIN and Cards). Registration/Enrollment of every individual into the National Identity Database. Managing the Unique Identities of every individual living in Nigeria which includes legally foreign residents. Regulating the Nigerian Identity Sector.

NIMC FACTS AND FIGURES:
Commenced Identity Registration/Enrollment in year 2012. NIMC is for life, only the card gets expired. Enrollment for NIMC is free for first registration and a token is paid for renewal. The Enrollment is mandatory for everyone.

ENROLLMENT TARGET: Children, Adults, Diaspora, Foreign Legal Residents, Refugees, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Undocumented People.

From left The Regional Coordinator NIMC, Acting General Manager/SSA to DG NIMC, CSO Rep, Rivers State Coordinator, CSO Rep, PHWAKAWAKA Blogger

CHALLENGES: Poor funding, Connectivity, Power, Consumables and Extortion.
Cyber Insecurity is also a challenge. One key solutions for power is for CSOs to go out of there way, approach/protest PHCN on why the creeping power supply. “Security is always a moving target, there’s nothing like proof”. We need to constantly move ahead and stay updated.

ECO-SYSTEM APPROACH: Licensing over three hundred (300+) partners to aid NIN registration. For every fifty thousand (50,000) person’s, there’s an enrollment centre. NIMC has deployed a technology driven system. NIMC is pushing for “National Data Protection Law”.

NIMC captures live biometric, so you have to go to be present at the enrollment centre.

NIMC is currently present in 22 countries where NIMC registration is done. NIMC collaborate with licensed Foreign Partners for enrollment.

NIMC Mobile App can be downloaded on Google play store, if you want your mobile ID on your phone. Strategic roadmap are all outlined in NIMC’s website (www.nimc.gov.ng).

Thank you.
Q&A.

Group Photograph

Port Harcourt Wakawaka
@National Identity Management Commission
@Paradigm Initiatives
@Foundation For Partnership Initiatives in Niger Delta.