Development and Peace has been supporting development projects in Nigeria since 1974. In the 1990s, when the military regime became harsher, we primarily encouraged justice and democracy initiatives at the grassroots level. When Canada suspended diplomatic relations with Nigeria during the dictatorship of General Abacha, Development and Peace maintained its support to the Nigerian people through this difficult period.

After elections in 1999, Nigeria became a priority country for Development and Peace, particularly due to its strategic position and the fact that it has the largest population of all African countries. Our current program aims to consolidate democratic reforms in the country and encourage citizen participation, particularly that of women, in the political sphere. The actions of our partners help to create spaces and opportunities for dialogue between citizens and elected officials at both the local and national levels. As such, we are working to counter rampant corruption, encourage transparent management of resources and increase the accountability of elected officials.

We currently work with women’s groups, youth groups, microcredit organizations and organizations that defend human rights. We also collaborate with peace and justice commissions of the Nigerian Catholic Church at the diocesan and national levels.