As Nigeria prepares to usher in 2025, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre/ Transparency International Nigeria (CISLAC/TI-Nigeria) has expressed deep concerns over the socio-economic challenges that plagued the nation in 2024.
In a statement signed by Auwal Rafsanjani, CISLAC/TI-Nigeria urged the government to act decisively in 2025 to address these challenges. “Nigeria’s future depends on the collective will of the government to implement bold, inclusive, and sustainable policies,” Rafsanjani stated.
It called on the administration of President Bola Tinubu to implement swift and comprehensive measures to address citizens’ plights and meet their expectations in the coming year.
CISLAC/TI-Nigeria criticized the continued high cost of governance, which has constrained resources needed for critical development sectors. The organization urged the government to implement recommendations from the Orosanye Report to eliminate wasteful expenditures and duplications. It also highlighted unproductive ventures at the state level that contribute little to economic growth.
The persistent insecurity, characterized by kidnappings, terrorism, and communal violence, was identified as a major concern. CISLAC/TI-Nigeria called for enhanced inter-agency cooperation, investment in intelligence and tactical operations, and increased resources for defense and security reforms as outlined in the 2025 Appropriation Bill. The organization emphasized the need for early warning systems, improved police remuneration, and stricter sanctions for human rights violations by security personnel.
The group stressed the importance of constitutional amendments, political party reforms, and judicial overhauls to strengthen democracy and governance. It warned that systemic inefficiencies and judicial independence issues could erode public trust in democratic institutions if not addressed promptly.
Weak border controls and lapses in financial regulation were noted as enablers of terrorism and illicit financial flows. CISLAC/TI-Nigeria urged the government to strengthen border security, particularly in the North-East and North-West, and enhance oversight of financial platforms to curb terrorism financing and money laundering.
The organization lamented attempts to undermine anti-corruption agencies in 2024 and called for the operational and financial independence of bodies like the EFCC, ICPC, and CCB. It recommended full implementation of anti-corruption laws, such as the Money Laundering Act and the Terrorism Prevention Act, to remove Nigeria from international grey lists.
CISLAC/TI-Nigeria commended the Supreme Court judgment prohibiting state governors from mismanaging local government funds. However, it stressed the need for constitutional reforms to ensure financial and administrative autonomy for local governments, enabling effective grassroots development.
The organization called for a holistic economic blueprint to address socio-economic challenges and drive diversification. It emphasized the need for public-private partnerships in agriculture and industry to stimulate sustainable growth and reduce unemployment.
As Nigerians anticipate the New Year, CISLAC/TI-Nigeria remains committed to advocating for reforms that will improve the nation’s socio-economic landscape and restore hope for a brighter future.
