Isiyaku Ahmed
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) on Saturday launched its 2026–2030 Strategic Plan, outlining an ambitious framework to advance human rights, strengthen democratic accountability, and tackle emerging national challenges.
The 5-year plan was unveiled by the CHRICED’s Executive Director, Dr. Ibrahim Zikirullahi, at a media launch held at Top Rank Galaxy Hotel, Utako, Abuja.
In his address, Dr. Zikirullahi said the new strategy represents a renewed commitment to transforming Nigeria’s governance landscape by empowering citizens and confronting systemic injustices.
He described the document as “a declaration of purpose” and “a roadmap for collective action” aimed at building a democracy that serves every citizen.
According to Dr. Zikirullahi, for nearly two decades, CHRICED has worked closely with marginalized communities, promoting civic education, demanding accountability, and amplifying citizens’ voices, adding that the new plan reflects both CHRICED’s legacy and the urgent realities facing Nigeria.
Addressing National Challenges
Dr. Zikirullahi highlighted several pressing issues shaping CHRICED’s agenda, including the growing impact of climate change, systemic exclusion of indigenous communities, particularly original inhabitants of the Federal Capital Territory, rising maternal and child mortality, insecurity, digital repression, and electoral malpractice.
“These realities demand not just reflection, but decisive action.
“They compel us to ask: What kind of Nigeria do we want to build, and what legacy shall we leave for future generations?”
Six Strategic Pillars
The 2026–2030 plan is anchored on six key pillars:
- Environmental Justice: Supporting communities affected by climate threats and advocating for inclusive and transparent climate policies.
- Indigenous Rights: Advancing the rights and recognition of indigenous populations, especially FCT original inhabitants.
- Maternal and Child Health: Expanding efforts to combat high maternal and child mortality through community partnerships.
- Digital Empowerment: Promoting digital literacy and safeguarding citizens from digital repression.
- Democratic Accountability: Strengthening civic oversight, supporting the media, and promoting ethical governance.
- Electoral Integrity: Ensuring credible, transparent elections and protecting the sanctity of the ballot.
Dr. Zikirullahi stressed that democracy without accountability “is merely a façade,” and warned that electoral malpractice continues to undermine citizen trust in institutions.
Rooted in Rights, Guided by Community Voices
The Executive Director noted that the plan was developed through a rights-based framework informed by community input and evidence.
He described it as a “living document” that will evolve in response to changing realities.
Dr. Zikirillahi expressed gratitude to the MacArthur Foundation for supporting the process, the organisation’s Board and staff for their commitment.
He particularly commended Mr. Oladayo Olaide for his instrumental role in shaping the strategy.
A Call to Collective Action
Dr. Zikirullahi concluded with a call for collaboration from citizens, partners, and stakeholders, emphasising that real change comes from collective effort.
“Documents do not change societies, people do.
“The future we seek will not be handed to us; it must be built by us, brick by brick, voice by voice, and action by action,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to join CHRICED in building a nation where governance is people-centered, justice is universal, and democracy is a lived reality for all.
