EUSDGN II Project Reaffirms Commitment to Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy Through Media Suppor
The European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EUSDGN) Phase II Project has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a functioning democracy where every voice is heard, emphasizing the crucial role of the media in ensuring transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance.
Through its Component 4: Support to Media, the project continues to empower journalists, editors, and media institutions across the country to play a stronger role in democratic development and civic engagement. The initiative is implemented by the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria, with funding from the European Union (EU), as part of its broader effort to consolidate democracy and good governance in Nigeria.
Speaking at a recent stakeholder engagement forum, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of IPC, noted that the project’s goal is to build a media sector that is professional, ethical, and responsive to the needs of citizens. He stressed that democracy thrives when the media operates freely and responsibly, providing citizens with accurate information and a platform to express diverse views.
“Our objective under Component 4 is to strengthen the media’s capacity to hold power to account, promote electoral transparency, and amplify marginalized voices, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities,” Arogundade said.
Under the EUSDGN II Project, several capacity-building workshops have been organized for journalists on electoral reporting, fact-checking, media literacy, and conflict-sensitive communication. The initiative also supports the creation of fact-checking hubs, newsroom policy reforms, and collaborations between media organizations and civil society groups.
Olutoyin Ayoade, Communications Officer for Component 4, reiterated the EU’s unwavering support for credible journalism as a foundation for sustainable democracy. She emphasized that the media must not only inform but also empower citizens to engage meaningfully in governance processes.
“The EU remains committed to supporting democratic institutions in Nigeria. A vibrant and independent media is at the heart of that commitment. We want to create an environment where every citizen’s voice counts and where journalists can report without fear or bias,” she said.
The EUSDGN II Project is part of the European Union’s ongoing partnership with Nigeria, focusing on electoral reforms, civic engagement, women’s political participation, and institutional capacity-building. Through its media support component, it continues to bridge the gap between citizens and decision-makers, ensuring that governance is inclusive and participatory.
As Nigeria prepares for future elections and deepens its democratic processes, the EUSDGN II Project stands as a testament to the power of collaboration between international partners, media professionals, and civil society in nurturing a democracy where every voice is truly heard.
