CRPDS Hosts Stakeholder Dialogue on Challenges Facing Civic Space in Northwest Nigeria

By Mustapha Salisu and Mariya Shuaibu Sulaiman

As part of efforts to explore challenges and barriers facing civic space in Northwest Nigeria, the Center for Policy Research and Development Solutions (CRPDS) organized a stakeholder engagement on threats to open space in the country.

The dialogue, which brought together participants from civil society and the media, was held on Monday at Tahir Guest Palace, Kano.

In her opening remarks, Maryam Bappa, Program officer at CPRDS, welcomed attendees and emphasized the objective of the meeting to deepen understanding of the challenges confronting civic space and identify solutions by gathering insights from stakeholders. she noted that the discussions would contribute to CRPDS’s policy brief.

Also speaking, Salim Yunusa, moderator of the dialogue, highlighted that a thriving democracy depends on an open civic space, which serves as a political, legislative, social, and economic environment where citizens can unite and take action to shape their societies. He pointed out that fundamental elements of civic space include freedom of expression, association, and assembly.

However, he expressed concern over the increasing threats to civic space, stating that it is gradually shrinking. He identified key challenges such as insecurity, low public trust in civil society, and government restrictions.

During the dialogue, participants highlighted major threats, including restrictive laws like the Cybercrime Act and AMA regulations, insecurity from insurgents and bandits, harassment and intimidation of journalists and activists, misinformation campaigns, and cultural barriers limiting inclusive participation.

To address these challenges, stakeholders proposed strengthening partnerships among organizations, building community trust through awareness campaigns, and advocating for policy reforms through collaborative efforts.