EU and Global Rights Launch Civic Space Reform Project

Global Rights, in collaboration with the European Union (EU), has initiated a project aimed at strengthening civic space reforms in Nigeria. The project, which will culminate in a 2025 evaluation report, focuses on improving the regulatory environment for civil society organizations (CSOs) and addressing regulatory bottlenecks.

Abiodun Baiyewu, the Executive Director of Global Rights, emphasized that the project does not signify the end of collaboration but rather a long-term effort requiring cooperation among federal and state governments, regulatory agencies, and civil society. The initiative has surveyed 39 organizations across seven states, including Oyo, Ogun, Osun, Anambra, Ebonyi, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom.

Baiyewu commended the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) for its transformation over the past three years and urged continued support for civic engagement. Massimo De Luca, an EU official, reiterated the importance of civil society in promoting democracy and good governance in Nigeria.