Yola: Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) and stakeholders in Nigeria’s humanitarian and development sector have unveiled a localised barometer aimed at strengthening community-led interventions in Nigeria. The report, introduced in Yola, also seeks to assess the progress and gaps in locally-led humanitarian action, and it is implemented by the Community of Adamawa Civil Organisations (CACO).
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Chairman of the Network of Adamawa Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO), Mr. Peter Egwudah, described the report as a major milestone in advancing humanitarian effectiveness in Nigeria. “The initiative aligns with commitments under the Grand Bargain to ensure national and local actors play leading roles in humanitarian response,” he said. He emphasized that the barometer provides valuable insights into the implementation levels, challenges, and opportunities, countering the perception that local organisations lack capacity, expertise, and visibility.
Egwudah highlighted that local CSOs can deliver effectively when adequately supported. He pointed out that funding remains a critical issue, as many local actors lack direct access to funds, which is compounded by the involvement of multiple intermediaries. “I recall that the Grand Bargain target of allocating 25 per cent of humanitarian funding directly to national actors had yet to be achieved. Access to direct funding is one of the gaps that we are trying to fill with this document,” he noted.
The NANGO chairman also emphasized the necessity of equitable partnerships that promote skills and knowledge transfer between local and international organisations. He stressed the importance of effective coordination to avoid duplication and wastage, adding that government leadership is crucial for ensuring ownership. He reaffirmed that localisation is central to building a more accountable and sustainable humanitarian system in Nigeria.
Mrs. Amy Gaman, Managing Director of Nuru Nigeria, stated that the barometer would assist local actors in assessing capacity, reflecting on impact, and ensuring the sustainability of interventions. Gaman noted that the 25 per cent funding commitment to local actors remains unmet. “Increased direct funding will enable local organisations to scale up community-driven solutions, particularly in areas affected by conflict,” she said.
In his remarks, Mr. Bello Diram, Commissioner for Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, Reintegration and Humanitarian Services, commended the initiative as a significant achievement. Represented by Permanent Secretary Mr. Amos Paribu, Diram stated that the Adamawa government is committed to supporting national NGOs to maximise their potential. “The ministry will continue to collaborate with CSOs on coordination, monitoring, reporting, resource mobilisation and capacity development to ensure efficient service delivery. I am confident that sustained collaboration would foster a Nigerian-led humanitarian system responsive to community needs,” he added.