The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) on Wednesday unveiled the “Make It Count” Project, a new initiative aimed at strengthening independent media, promoting human rights reporting, and empowering citizens to play a more active role in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting held at the Catholic Secretariat in Abuja, CHRICED Executive Director, Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, described the project as a transformative movement designed to amplify the voices of ordinary Nigerians and reinforce democratic accountability.
The meeting, themed “The Future of Independent Media and Human Rights Reporting in Nigeria,” brought together civil society organizations, media practitioners, government representatives, development partners, and human rights advocates to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing independent journalism in the country.
Comrade Dr. Zikirullahi said the project was conceived at a time when journalists and civic actors face increasing pressure, intimidation, and restrictions, while vulnerable communities continue to struggle to make their voices heard.
According to him, the initiative, which is being implemented in collaboration with WELTFILME, Germany, is designed to promote media independence, encourage courageous and fact-based journalism, and amplify the voices of women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups in national conversations and decision-making processes.
He explained that the project would focus on nurturing a new generation of citizen reporters, empowering community-based storytellers, and supporting media platforms committed to accountability and public interest journalism.
“Through Make It Count, we will invest in training, technology, and collaborative networks that enable journalists and civic actors to document abuses, expose corruption, and highlight stories of resilience and hope,” he said.
Comrade Dr. Zikirullahi stressed that the initiative extends beyond CHRICED, describing it as a collective effort involving media professionals, civil society groups, development partners, and citizens who believe in the role of a free press in sustaining democracy and protecting human rights.
He noted that participants at the stakeholders’ meeting would contribute ideas and recommendations to shape the implementation of the project and ensure its impact is inclusive and far-reaching.
The CHRICED Boss also expressed appreciation to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) for funding the project through WELTFILME e.V., Germany.
He further acknowledged the contributions of WELTFILME Program Director, Fiona Klassen, the organization’s Nigeria Project Team Lead, Julia Krojer, and the Make It Count Project Manager, Kolawole Omoniyi, for their roles in bringing the initiative to fruition.
Comrade Dr. Zikirullahi called on stakeholders to collaborate in building a future where information flows freely, journalists are protected, human rights are respected, and democratic governance remains accountable to the people.
The “Make It Count” Project is expected to serve as a platform for strengthening civic engagement, expanding access to credible information, and promoting a more inclusive and participatory democratic culture in Nigeria.
