EU and Stakeholders Demand Urgent Reform of Nigeria’s Social Development Act

The European Union and key stakeholders have called for an urgent review of Nigeria’s Social Development Act (SDA), citing significant gaps in its framework that hinder inclusive growth and the protection of vulnerable groups. This appeal was made during the National SDA Summit held in Abuja, organized by the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance and funded by the European Union under its CSOs-Bridge Strengthening Project.

Originally enacted in 2004, the Social Development Act was designed to provide a comprehensive framework for Nigeria’s social development. However, many stakeholders argue that it no longer meets the current needs of the population. Hon. Valentina Enih, the Enugu State Commissioner for Children, Gender and Social Development, emphasized the urgency of reforming the Act, stating, “The Act is older than many of us. Outdated provisions and emerging social challenges demand urgent reform.” She underscored the importance of unity among civil society organizations (CSOs) to achieve collective goals, urging lawmakers to allocate more funding to ministries focused on women’s affairs, poverty eradication, and social protection.

The summit, which coincided with the global 16 Days of Activism campaign, aimed to revive national attention on the long-neglected Social Development Act and Policy. Idem Akpan Udoekong, Project Manager of the EU Strengthening Bridge Project, highlighted the pivotal role of CSOs in education, healthcare, civic values, and community development, especially where government services fall short. He noted that updating the SDA could enhance coordination on gender issues and improve strategies for addressing gender-based violence.

The urgency of legislative reform was echoed by Hon. Victor Obuzor, Chairman of the House Committee on Civil Society Organisations and Development Partners. He stated that the National Assembly prioritizes reviewing the SDA to address fragmentation and institutional reassignments that have weakened its effectiveness. “Our Committee is reviewing historical gaps, engaging stakeholders, and supporting the development of a modernized civil society regulatory bill,” he said.

The Deputy Director at the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Peter Audu, remarked that the summit aligns with federal reforms aimed at promoting gender equality and social protection. “This forum provides an important opportunity to consider proposed amendments and develop a national coalition for sustainable financing and measurable results,” he added.

Several participants stressed the necessity for the revised law to include provisions for gender responsiveness from the outset. Dr. Fumi Akinyele, CEO of the Accountability and Transparency Initiative, pointed out that many rural women are often excluded from social protection programs due to requirements like smartphones and digital literacy. “Inclusion must go beyond words. We need clear definitions, gender-responsive budgeting, and disaggregated data to effectively address these issues,” she stated.

The challenges faced by sub-national CSOs were also highlighted by Prince Chris Azor, Chairman of the Anambra Civil Society Network. He called for the amended Act to provide a clear legal framework that expands civic space and ensures citizen participation in governance. “We want a standing law that expands civic space and ensures citizens are part of governance,” he said.

In addition, Harry Udo, Team Lead of the Ethics and Good Leadership Awareness Initiative, advocated for harmonizing registration and regulatory procedures under the SDA. He argued that this would allow states to grant CSOs the same legal status as entities registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, thereby enhancing grassroots operational capacity.

The summit concluded with a resolution demanding a declaration to guide states in creating a more coherent and supportive environment for civil society across Nigeria. As discussions continue, the emphasis remains on ensuring that reforms not only address current gaps but also prepare the framework for future challenges in social development.