Stakeholders, including all arms of government, development partners, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), have urged the government to regulate the issue of multiple registrations to ensure effective and optimal operations of CSOs in Nigeria.
This recommendation was part of their submissions at a one-day program titled “South West Regional Conference on Improving Regulatory Environment for CSO Operations in Nigeria,” with the theme: “Fostering Strategic Partnership for a Thriving Non-Profit Sector in Nigeria.” The event was organized by Global Rights, in collaboration with the Community of Practice on Civil Space Strengthening, and held on Thursday in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital.
The Speaker of the Oyo State House of Assembly, Hon. Adebo Ogundoyin, emphasized the need for advocacy to streamline the regulatory framework governing CSO operations, including harmonizing registration processes and reducing the multiplicity of fees.
Ogundoyin, who is the Chairman of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria and was represented by the Assembly Chief Whip, Hon. Gbenga Oyekola, noted that the contributions of CSOs in fostering social accountability, empowering communities, and promoting good governance remain invaluable.
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He said, “You are the heartbeat of social change, working tirelessly to ensure that government policies and programs meet the needs of the people, particularly the most vulnerable.
“However, I recognize that the regulatory environment within which you operate often presents significant challenges at both national and subnational levels. I am aware that CSOs face stringent and overbearing regulatory standards that can stifle productivity. Added to this burden is the requirement for multiple registrations and payment of fees to various State Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs), which further complicates effective operations.
“As someone who is deeply committed to the cause of good governance and effective service delivery, I assure you that your struggles are not lost on me. I understand the pressing need for a more enabling regulatory environment that will allow CSOs to thrive, and I am committed to using my office and influence to drive the necessary changes.”
The Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Daisi Elemide, expressed his appreciation for the CSOs’ role in holding governments accountable and promoting good governance.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the House of Representatives on Civil Society Organizations and Development Matters, Hon. Victor Obuzor, stated that the National Assembly recognizes the importance of CSOs in relation to good governance.
“There should be laws formulated to guide the activities of CSOs. A collaborative and communicative attitude should be taken seriously. The National Assembly is ready to dialogue with CSOs because we understand their importance,” he added.
The Executive Director of Global Rights, Abiodun Baiyewu, in her address, highlighted that CSOs are an essential ingredient for the survival of any government.
She explained that religious bodies, the media, community associations, among others, are part of CSOs.
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