Distinguished guests, esteemed members of the press, civic leaders, representatives of partner organizations, ladies and gentlemen,

It is with profound enthusiasm, a deep sense of purpose, and unwavering conviction that I welcome you all to this momentous occasion—the grand launch of the CHRICED Radio and Television Studio. Today, we are not merely inaugurating a broadcasting facility; we are igniting a beacon of truth, a pillar of justice, and a formidable instrument for civic engagement.

A Vision Born of Necessity

Since its inception in 2006, the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has stood resolute in its mission: to promote and protect the rights of citizens while fostering democracy in Nigeria. We have always believed that meaningful participation in governance is impossible without an informed and enlightened citizenry. This belief has been at the heart of our programmatic approach, guiding our unwavering commitment to civic and political education.

Yet, twenty-five years into Nigeria’s democratic journey, our nation finds itself at a crossroads. Democracy, ushered in with promise, now faces existential threats from systemic corruption, electoral malpractice, judicial inconsistencies, legislative recklessness, economic stagnation, and the widening gap between citizens and those entrusted with governance. Political leadership marred by mediocrity and a government increasingly bent on controlling the media space and silence dissent exacerbates these challenges.

In the face of these trials, CHRICED refuses to retreat. Instead, we rise—undaunted, determined, and ever more committed to amplifying the voices of ordinary Nigerians.

A Platform for Truth, Justice, and Civic Engagement

The CHRICED Radio and Television Studio is far more than a broadcasting station. It is a battleground against misinformation, a bulwark against deception, and a sanctuary where truth reigns supreme.

For too long, political elites have sought to manipulate narratives, distort reality, and silence critical voices. The media—an institution meant to inform, enlighten, and empower—has increasingly become a tool of suppression in the hands of politicians rather than liberation. But today, with the launch of CHRICED Radio and Television, we reclaim this space. We declare unequivocally that the airwaves belong to the people.

CHRICED Radio and Television is a core part of our strategic approach for expanding and guaranteeing space for citizens’ involvement. It has been established upon the foundational pillars of Inform, Disseminate, Educate, and Advocate (IDEA). These four tenets are not just words; they define our vision, chart our mission, and underscore our unwavering commitment to advancing democratic values in Nigeria.

Through these pillars of IDEA, CHRICED Radio and Television will:

• Disrupt misinformation and challenge false narratives that seek to deceive the public.
• Provide a platform for all Nigerians—workers, youth, women, community leaders, persons with disabilities (PWDs), indigenous people and marginalized voices—to share their realities without fear or restriction.
• Redefine civic engagement, inclusion, participation, and accountability, ensuring that democracy is not just a concept but a lived experience.

The power of civic media lies in its ability to ignite discourse, mobilize communities, and demand accountability. Today, we embrace this power, wield it with purpose, and vow to never relinquish it.

The Enduring Role of Civil Society

Over the last twenty-five years of our wobbling democracy, civil society has played an indispensable role in Nigeria’s democratic evolution. It has piloted innovative solutions, mobilized communities, and fostered partnerships that bring together media, government, and development actors to address pressing social and economic challenges.

We have supported legislative and policy reforms, advocated for pro-poor initiatives, and fought tirelessly to ensure that democracy works for all, not just the privileged few. Yet, despite these contributions, civil society remains under siege. Those who largely buy their way into power sit on the throne belching out orders like potentates.

Draconian policies aimed at stifling dissent threaten our existence. The National Assembly has never concealed its contempt for our work. Political opportunists and powerful figures routinely harass, intimidate, and arrest vocal civic leaders. But we refuse to be silenced.

Gratitude and Acknowledgment

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, this milestone would not be possible without the generous support of the MacArthur Foundation. Their commitment to advancing democracy, human rights, and social justice continues to inspire civil society organizations worldwide. We are honored to have Dr. Kole Ahmed Shettima, Director of the Africa Office of the MacArthur Foundation, formally commission this initiative today. The Foundation has supported Nigerian organizations, including CHRICED, for thirty years to innovate, thrive, and drive change. We extend our profound gratitude to the leadership of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation in Chicago for their steadfast support during times of turbulence and uncertainty.

We also extend heartfelt appreciation to the CHRICED Board of Directors, ably led by Professor Momodu Kassim-Momodu, whose wisdom, foresight, and commitment have guided this initiative. To our resilient and dedicated staff members, whose tireless efforts have turned a bold vision into reality: you are the heartbeat of this movement.

Honouring a Legacy

As we celebrate this historic occasion, we also pause to remember and honour the legacy of Nigeria’s late former President, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, who departed from this world on this very day, May 5, 2010, fifteen years ago.

President Yar’Adua was an uncommon leader—one who publicly declared his assets, acknowledged the flaws in the electoral system that brought him to power, and committed to far-reaching electoral reforms. His integrity, humility, and dedication to democratic principles remain a guiding light in a political landscape desperately in need of reform.

We pray for Allah’s continuous protection over his family and take this moment to reaffirm our commitment to the electoral integrity he once sought to restore.

We also honour our founding Chairman, the late Professor Abubakar Momoh, who left us on May 29, 2017. As a perceptive observer of circumstances, Momoh shared invaluable wisdom that strengthened this organization in its early days, guiding it through the significant challenges at the heart of democratic evolution in Nigeria and beyond. His insight and dedication were instrumental in shaping our mission and impact. We pray that Allah blesses his soul and grants him eternal peace. Ameen!

A Call to Action

Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, today marks the beginning of a new chapter in Nigeria’s democratic journey. The media is a force for good—a tool for empowerment, a weapon against tyranny, and a shield for the oppressed. CHRICED Radio and Television stands as a testament to that belief.

We invite you all—journalists, activists, academics, citizens, development partners—to join us in this mission. Let us harness the power of media to champion transparency, demand accountability, and defend democratic values. Let us remain unwavering in our pursuit of justice, freedom, and truth.

Together, we can shape a Nigeria where democracy is not just spoken of but truly lived.

I thank you all for being part of this journey. Let us move forward, undeterred and ever committed, in the fight for a just and equitable society.