Nigeria ‘On The Brink’: CSOs Sound Alarm Over Insecurity, Hardship
CSOs Warn of Deepening National Crisis
A coalition of 52 civil society organisations, including ActionAid Nigeria, Centre for Democracy and Development, Yiaga Africa and Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project, has warned that Nigeria is edging toward collapse due to worsening governance failures.
In a joint statement titled “A Call to Action by Nigerian Civil Society Organisations,” the groups cited insecurity, economic hardship, corruption, and democratic backsliding as key threats pushing the country to a critical point.
Rising Insecurity and Humanitarian Strain
The CSOs expressed concern over escalating violence across states such as Borno, Plateau, Kaduna, and Benue, where recent attacks have resulted in deaths and abductions.
They warned that widespread insecurity has disrupted farming, worsened food shortages, and displaced communities, particularly in the North and Middle Belt. According to them, banditry and kidnapping have become entrenched, with citizens increasingly forced to pay ransom for safety.
Economic Hardship and Inequality Deepen
Highlighting economic challenges, the groups noted that millions of Nigerians face multidimensional poverty, lacking access to food, shelter, and education. Rising fuel prices and inflation, partly linked to global tensions, have further strained household incomes.
They argued that despite record government revenues and budgets exceeding ₦100 trillion in recent years, there has been little visible improvement in citizens’ welfare.
“Public services falter while inequality grows,” the statement said, adding that ordinary Nigerians continue to struggle as political elites benefit from increased allocations.
Concerns Over Democracy and Civic Space
The organisations also raised alarm over alleged threats to Nigeria’s multi-party democracy, warning against attempts to weaken opposition voices ahead of the 2027 elections.
They decried what they described as a shrinking civic space, citing harassment of journalists, intimidation of activists, and suppression of protests.
In addition, the CSOs expressed concern about declining trust in the judiciary, alleging political interference and delayed justice.
Call for Urgent Reforms
The coalition outlined key demands, including economic reforms that translate public revenues into tangible benefits such as jobs, healthcare, and affordable food.
They also called for stronger security coordination, transparency in public spending, and swift prosecution of corruption cases. Electoral reforms, protection of civil liberties, and judicial independence were highlighted as critical to restoring public trust.
Experts Echo Concerns
Executive Director of Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, said the intervention became necessary due to deteriorating governance and insecurity.
He warned that political actors are prioritising power struggles over citizens’ welfare, leaving Nigerians to grapple with violence and economic hardship.
Similarly, political analyst Seyid Hassan Cisse argued that current economic conditions are unjustifiable, especially as elections approach.
A Call for People-Centred Governance
The CSOs concluded that leadership must shift from rhetoric to action, insisting that public resources must translate into improved living conditions.
They warned that continued neglect could erode public trust further, urging authorities to prioritise justice, equity, and accountable governance.
