President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has stated that Nigeria is moving from a period of economic reforms to prosperity. He made this declaration at the National Civil Society Organisations Summit 2026 in Abuja, themed “Nigeria First and National Development”. The summit, according to Tinubu, is a strategic reaffirmation of the social contract between the state and the Nigerian people. This comes shortly after the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Tinubu acknowledged the significant contributions of civil society organisations (CSOs) to Nigeria’s democratic development. He noted that CSOs have evolved to become the conscience of the nation, giving voice to vulnerable and marginalised citizens. The President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, stressed that CSOs’ contributions to democratic governance, social justice, and poverty eradication have become indispensable to Nigeria’s development trajectory.
The President’s call comes as stakeholders raised concerns about vote buying, logistics, and voter education ahead of the 2027 general elections. Tinubu announced four major commitments to strengthen the government-CSO partnership. These include establishing a Quarterly Government-Civil Society Policy Dialogue Forum and expanding civic space for social accountability. The forum will ensure that evidence-based advocacy and community insights from CSOs inform policy design, implementation, and evaluation.
Tinubu also charged government and civil society to work together to promote national cohesion and sustain peace. He urged CSOs to remain a stabilising force by countering misinformation and promoting interfaith dialogue. The President called on CSOs to educate voters, monitor elections, and advocate reforms before, during, and after the polls. He emphasised that collaboration among CSOs, law enforcement agencies, judiciary, media, and citizens will be critical to ensuring credible elections.
In his keynote address, Director-General of the Civil Society Coalition for Humanitarian Empowerment Initiative, Dr Kunle Yusuf, said the summit was driven by the philosophy of putting Nigeria first. He disclosed that the summit would produce an Abuja Declaration on Nigeria First, a National CSOs Monitoring Framework, and a Sustainable Partnership Compact. The summit was structured around four strategic pillars, including civic education, electoral integrity, and sustainable development.
During a panel discussion, CSOs cautioned the Independent National Electoral Commission and political actors against actions capable of undermining the amended Electoral Act. They urged measures to address shortcomings observed during the 2023 elections. The CSOs advocated for separate voting arrangements for specialised workers and special consideration for pregnant women and persons with disabilities.
President Tinubu reiterated the government’s commitment to protecting civic space, freedom of expression, association, assembly, and press freedom. He described these as inalienable rights protected by the Nigerian Constitution and international obligations. The President told CSOs to ensure their legitimacy is matched by credibility and their advocacy by credible patriotism.
Key points
- President Tinubu announces four major commitments to strengthen government-CSO partnership.
- Stakeholders raise concerns about vote buying, logistics, and voter education ahead of 2027 general elections.
- Tinubu urges CSOs to educate voters, monitor elections, and advocate reforms for credible elections.
