Nigeria Plans EITI Reforms to Boost Transparency and Accountability

The Nigerian government is set to enhance its use of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) as a key reform tool rather than merely adhering to compliance standards. This announcement was made by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, during a two-day advocacy dialogue in Abuja, aimed at preparing for Nigeria’s EITI validation in 2026.

Akume emphasized the necessity of moving beyond a checkbox approach to transparency, stating that the EITI can effectively address revenue leakages, strengthen institutions, and deliver measurable benefits to Nigerian citizens. He was represented by Dele Ayanleke, President of the Miners Association of Nigeria, who highlighted the dialogue’s significance at a time when Nigeria is facing economic reforms and increasing public demand for accountability in managing natural resources.

Improving Governance in the Extractive Sector

The dialogue brought together various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, and the media, to assess Nigeria’s readiness for the upcoming EITI validation under the 2023 Standard. Akume acknowledged that while the extractive sector plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s revenue generation and long-term development, governance gaps and transparency issues have hindered its potential.

He pointed out that the EITI 2023 Standard elevates expectations for implementing countries by focusing on actionable reforms rather than mere disclosure. “This means going beyond compliance to use EITI as a reform tool that supports domestic revenue mobilization and inclusive governance,” Akume stated.

Further, Musa Adar, Executive Secretary of NEITI, noted Nigeria’s commitment to improving its performance for the next EITI validation, having received a score of 72 out of 100 in the latest assessment. He described the EITI as evolving from a simple checklist to a rigorous test of credibility that demands demonstrable reforms and meaningful stakeholder engagement.

Addressing Gaps and Enhancing Participation

Adar highlighted that the 2023 Standard requires robust participation from civil society, the media, and local actors, stressing that mere representation is no longer sufficient. He noted that previous validations identified critical gaps that must be addressed before the new assessment, including the need for improved engagement mechanisms and better accessibility of extractive sector data.

The NEITI chief underscored the importance of collective efforts from the government, companies, and civil society to achieve success in the EITI process. “As we approach the next validation with urgency, our message is simple: Nigeria will be ready. However, this readiness is a shared responsibility and a collective national outcome,” Adar stated.

The advocacy dialogue also introduced a new policy brief focusing on bridging the gap between policy approval and execution. This initiative aims to tackle revenue leakages and enhance transparency in revenue management. Adar urged civil society organizations and the media to actively monitor the implementation of new tax and revenue laws, thereby ensuring that reforms translate into improved public value and citizen welfare.

“This meeting is critical because Nigeria’s implementation of the EITI will be benchmarked against the EITI 2023 Standard. We are determined to achieve a better outcome this time,” Adar affirmed, emphasizing that the EITI is no longer just a narrow checklist but a comprehensive approach to improving governance in the extractive sector.