Abuja, Nigeria – The West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) convened a crucial meeting in Abuja to deepen its engagement with civil society organizations across Nigeria. Led by Nana Asantewa Afadzinu, Executive Director of WACSI, the session focused on WACSI’s mission, future strategy, and ways to better support Nigerian civil society.
“We’re here today to discuss WACSI—who we are, our mission, and our strategic plan for the next three to four years,” Afadzinu said. “As a regional organization based in Ghana, WACSI serves all 15 ECOWAS countries, but given Nigeria’s size and influence, we recognized the need for a dedicated office here. Our new WACSI-Node in Nigeria will allow us to respond to the unique needs of civil society here more effectively.”
Afadzinu emphasized that the WACSI-Node Nigeria office would help bridge existing gaps in support and serve as a local resource for civil society. “With numerous organizations in Nigeria seeking our support, proximity is essential. Today, we’re asking how WACSI can add value to the work of these organizations and strengthen the civil society ecosystem in Nigeria so that it is effective, resilient, and sustainable.”
The session brought together around 40 civil society organizations from various geopolitical zones, reflecting Nigeria’s diverse perspectives and needs. This gathering follows the recent West Africa Civil Society Week, where regional organizations came together to address shared challenges.
Upcoming Priorities for WACSI: Resource Mobilization and Shifting Power Dynamics
When asked about WACSI’s priorities for the next year, Afadzinu highlighted resource mobilization and fostering local philanthropy to reduce dependence on external donors. “We’re not only supporting civil society to mobilize international resources; we’re also focusing on local philanthropy and alternative funding methods beyond traditional proposal writing,” she said. “We’re exploring ways for civil society to raise funds locally.”
Afadzinu also noted WACSI’s commitment to promoting equitable relationships within the international development community. “We advocate for a shift in power dynamics, ensuring that civil society in countries like Nigeria and Ghana are seen as equal partners in the development sector. Our aim is to build trust-based, sustainable funding models that treat local organizations as vital, not secondary, players.”
Listening to Civil Society’s Priorities proposal writing,” she said. “We’re exploring ways for civil society to raise funds locally.”
Afadzinu also noted WACSI’s commitment to promoting equitable relationships within the international development community. “We advocate for a shift in power dynamics, ensuring that civil society in countries like Nigeria and Ghana are seen as equal partners in the development sector. Our aim is to build trust-based, sustainable funding models that treat local organizations as vital, not secondary, players.”
Listening to Civil Society’s Priorities
Omolara Balogun, Head of Policy Influencing and Advocacy at WACSI, reiterated the importance of understanding the unique challenges Nigerian civil society faces. “WACSI is an inclusive organization focused on tailoring its support to the specific needs of civil society,” Balogun stated. “We don’t want a prescriptive approach; rather, we want to work alongside civil society organizations, listening to them and responding to their priorities.”
Balogun emphasized that the meeting was an opportunity to identify priority issues and gain insight into the current challenges impacting Nigerian civil society. “Today’s engagement allows us to understand how WACSI can support the growth, resilience, and effectiveness of civil society in Nigeria, particularly as they face challenges to democracy and civic freedoms.”
The current economic downturn across West Africa, combined with political strains and security concerns, was highlighted as a pressing issue. “The high cost of living and the disconnect between government and citizens add immense pressure,” Balogun noted. “Furthermore, restrictions in digital access, media censorship, and the shrinking civic space present significant barriers for civil society.”
Despite these challenges, WACSI remains optimistic. “Civil society continues to strategize, mobilize local resources, and clarify their mission amid these restrictions,” Balogun added. “WACSI is dedicated to strengthening their advocacy capabilities, regulatory compliance, and access to data and information.”
Advocating for a Revitalized Democracy
Both Afadzinu and Balogun underscored WACSI’s role in advocating for strengthened democratic institutions across West Africa. “Democracy is weakened right now, almost ‘sick’ in a sense, and needs reinforcement,” Afadzinu said. “Strengthening democracy is essential not just for civil society but for the future of all citizens in West Africa.”
As WACSI continues to support Nigerian civil society, the organization hopes its efforts will contribute to a more resilient, effective, and sustainable civil society sector across the region.
