Nigeria, UNDP Strengthen Democratic Governance in West Africa Through New Regional Partnership

Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening democratic governance in West Africa through the Regional Partnership for Democracy (RPD). The initiative aims to promote inclusive, accountable, and resilient political systems across the sub-region.

At a high-level meeting in Abuja, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, hosted the UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah, to review progress and discuss strategic priorities for the RPD. The discussions focused on strengthening democratic institutions, upholding the rule of law, and expanding civic participation across West African nations.

Ambassador Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s leadership role in promoting regional governance reforms through the African Union, highlighting the need for collaborative action to address challenges facing democratic systems.

He noted the Ministry’s ongoing efforts to align national policy with broader regional frameworks to ensure transparency and inclusivity.

“The RPD is an opportunity to drive homegrown, context-specific solutions to democratic challenges, with Nigeria playing a leading operational and political role,” Tuggar said.

The RPD brings together key stakeholders including governments, civil society, academia, youth groups, and development partners to design and implement democratic reforms rooted in African values.

The initiative prioritizes policy dialogue, institutional strengthening, and civic engagement as core strategies to promote good governance and political stability.

UNDP has pledged continued support for the initiative, offering technical assistance, capacity development, and policy expertise to bolster implementation.

Ms. Attafuah reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to scaling the initiative’s impact across West Africa, citing its potential to improve political accountability and citizen participation.

The partnership marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s 4D Foreign Policy Strategy, particularly its Democracy pillar, which seeks to promote constitutional order and rule of law within and beyond its borders.

The RPD will be piloted in select countries across West Africa, with Nigeria providing both strategic leadership and operational support for its rollout.