Nigeria and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have partnered to strengthen democratic institutions in West Africa through the Regional Partnership for Democracy.
This initiative aims to address pressing challenges facing democracy in the region and promote inclusive civic participation.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, during the High-Level Briefing on the Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD) Programme on Monday in Abuja, explained that the partnership is crucial in addressing the threats confronting democracy.
He said, “The problem we’re facing today is the fact that democracy works on the assumption of some basic truths. And when truth itself is under threat and it becomes blurred and difficult to discern, then democracy itself is under threat.”
Tuggar also commended the UNDP for its support and guidance in actualising the Regional Partnership for Democracy.
He emphasised the need for collective ownership and collaboration to strengthen institutions essential to making democracy work.
“We’re not simply saying because we conceive of the idea, we want to retain ownership. We put it out there for collective ownership and for us to continue to work together to strengthen the very same institutions that we always complain about,” Tuggar stated.
The Minister praised the UNDP for taking concrete actions to support democratic institutions, saying, “That’s why we truly must commend UNDP for stepping in to walk the walk, and not just talk about it, to begin to take the necessary actions to reify those same institutions that we keep saying have to be strengthened.”
In her response, the UNDP Resident Representative for the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Elsie Attafuah, noted that the partnership leverages Nigeria’s experience and the UNDP’s global presence to promote democratic governance.
“We are delighted to welcome this initiative, which is African-led, bold, practical, and people-centered. We believe that together, we’ll deliver a regional legacy worth remembering.”
“The initiative aims to address the challenges facing democracy in West Africa, including the spread of misinformation and disinformation.”
“The UNDP has been actively supporting democratic elections and governance in Africa for decades, working with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to promote inclusive and transparent electoral processes.”
Attafuah reiterated the UNDP’s ability to draw on experiences from other countries and institutions.
“We have country presence in 170 countries and territories worldwide. We can connect south to south, deepening networks and joining expertise to inform our work.”
“The partnership is seen as a significant step in strengthening democratic institutions in West Africa, particularly in areas such as civic engagement, information integrity, and elections.”
The UNDP’s approach emphasises the importance of digital technologies in enhancing democratic processes, while also mitigating the risks associated with their use.
“We’re open for business,” Attafuah said, expressing the UNDP’s commitment to collaborating with Nigeria and other partners to promote democratic governance in the region.
Attafuah also expressed support for Nigeria’s initiative to promote the creative industry, citing its significant contribution to the country’s GDP and job creation. She praised the initiative, saying it aligns with the organisation’s goals.
“This atrium celebrates the history of Nigeria, the culture of Nigeria, the creativity of Nigeria, the ambition, the boldness and the resilience of this great nation,” Attafuah said.
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She highlighted the importance of the creative industry in providing jobs for young people and generating revenue.
“The UNDP recognises the creative industry’s potential in driving development and promoting inclusive growth. Nigeria’s Nollywood, ranked second in the world, and Afrobeat music are notable examples of the country’s rich cultural heritage.”
Attafuah emphasised the link between the creative industry and the country’s development agenda, particularly in addressing demographic challenges.
“It’s not only about talking about the creative industries, but also about a development agenda of this country, and young people, mostly, are also behind some of these things,” she said.
“The UNDP has been working with Nigeria on various initiatives, including police reform and community security.”
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