CSOs, policymakers chart ways to address non-profit sector challenges in A’Ibom
By Theresa Donatus
More than 150 civil society leaders, government officials, and development partners gathered in Akwa Ibom state for the second South-South Regional Conference aimed at tackling regulatory hurdles facing Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) in Nigeria.
The event which was organized by the Community of Practice on Civic Space Strengthening and facilitated by Global Rights with support from the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and West Africa, brought together participants from all six South-South states and the Federal Capital Territory. An additional 44 delegates joined virtually.
Held on the theme: “Scaling Policy to Action: Strengthening the Regulatory Environment for Sustainable CSO Operations in Nigeria,” the conference served as a platform for frank dialogue on the systemic and institutional challenges hindering the effectiveness and sustainability of the non-profit sector.
Participants pointed to a range of pressing issues including overlapping registration processes, inconsistent legal frameworks, and declining donor funding. They also emphasized the urgent need for stronger collaboration between CSOs and government institutions to address these structural barriers.
Recommended a Streamlined Registration Processes where Establishment of state-level one-stop registration hubs within Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and adoption of a standardized fee structure across the region.
They also proposed Legal Awareness for CSOs to Increased legal education for non-profits to navigate exemption clauses and avoid unnecessary penalties.
On Legislative Reform, the CSOs proposed a comprehensive review of laws impacting CSO operations, with active involvement from legislators and reform commissions.
Other recommendations included: Financial Sustainability, Recognition of Grassroots Organizations and Sector Accountability Promotion of self-regulation and enhanced professionalism through training, transparency, and sector-wide standards.
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The Uyo event builds on momentum from the inaugural regional conference held in Calabar in 2024, reflecting a growing movement to safeguard and expand civic space in Nigeria.
Organizers closed the event with a renewed call for action, underscoring their commitment to turning policy discussions into tangible reforms for a more inclusive and enabling environment for civil society.
