MAPPING AND CAPACITY NEEDS ASSESSMENT OF CIVIL SOCIETY ORGANISATIONS (CSOs) IN NIGERIA
Published: 5th June 2025
Title: Validation Meeting on the Mapping and capacity Assessment of Civil Society Organizations in Nigeria.
On 4th June 2025, the West Africa Civil Society Institute (WACSI) hosted a virtual session via Zoom to present the findings of a national Mapping and Capacity Needs Assessment of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) in Nigeria. Among the participants was His Marvellous Grace Support Foundation (HMGSF), joining other key stakeholders in a crucial conversation about the current state and future of the civil society sector.
The assessment aimed to deepen understanding of the civil society landscape, evaluating the operational capacities of CSOs across different regions and sectors. It also explored challenges and opportunities facing these organizations, with the ultimate goal of informing targeted interventions that would enhance the sustainability and effectiveness of the sector.
To achieve these objectives, a mixed-methods approach was adopted. Data was gathered through structured questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions, capturing both numerical and narrative insights. The process ensured representation across Nigeria’s diverse civil society spectrum by applying a stratified sampling technique. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive and comparative methods, while qualitative responses were carefully examined to extract recurring themes and meaningful insights.
The findings reveal that many CSOs, particularly smaller and newly formed ones, face significant challenges related to internal management, financial stability, and strategic direction. Larger and more established organizations appear better positioned, though they too encounter limitations. Across the sector, there is a strong dependence on limited funding sources, and the lack of diversified revenue streams continues to threaten long-term sustainability.
Geographically, the study highlighted a notable underrepresentation of CSOs in the North-East and North-West regions of Nigeria, where insecurity poses serious operational constraints. Most active organizations focus their efforts on areas such as human rights advocacy, governance, and poverty alleviation. However, digital transformation remains slow. Many organizations lack the tools and capacity to leverage digital platforms for communication, fundraising, or project execution, which hampers their efficiency and outreach.
Despite the existence of collaborative networks, the session also emphasized the need for deeper, more strategic partnerships. Such alliances are seen as vital for amplifying impact and addressing systemic issues more effectively. The broader interpretation of these findings suggests a civil society sector that is vibrant and resilient, yet constrained by internal gaps and external threats—particularly in fragile, high-risk regions.
It is clear that building the capacity of CSOs through customized training in governance, leadership, and resource management is essential. Encouraging alternative funding models such as social enterprises, corporate partnerships, and local philanthropy will also contribute to financial resilience. Furthermore, enhancing digital literacy and access to technology can greatly improve the effectiveness of CSOs, while organizations operating in conflict zones must be supported through robust risk management frameworks.
The national Mapping and Capacity Needs Assessment serves as a timely and valuable reflection on the state of Nigeria’s civil society. The Zoom session hosted by WACSI brought together voices from across the sector, including HMGSF, reinforcing the importance of inclusive dialogue and shared responsibility. Moving forward, collaboration among CSOs, development partners, and public institutions will be key to ensuring these organizations are empowered to fulfill their missions and drive positive change across Nigeria.
Date Created: June 11, 2025 1:38 PM
Author: Asisat
Comments:
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Date: June 17, 2025 3:57 AM
Today, I went to the beachfront with my children. I found a sea
shell and gavve it to my 4 year old daughter annd said "You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear." She placed the shell to her ear and
screamed. Thete wwas a hermit crdab inside and it pinched her ear.
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Commenter: Today, I went to the beachfront with my children. I fohnd a seaa shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and said "You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear." She placed the shell too her ear and screamed. Thewre was a hermit crab inside an
Date: June 17, 2025 3:57 AM
Today, I went to the beachfront with my children. I found a sea shell and
ggave itt to myy 4 year old daughter and said "You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear."
Shhe placed tthe shell to her ear and screamed. There wass a hermit crab
inside and it pinched her ear. She never wants to go back!
LoL I know his is totally offf topic but I had to tell someone!