The Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED) proudly marks its 20th Anniversary, celebrating two decades of courageous advocacy, principled civic engagement, and unwavering commitment to strengthening democratic accountability across Nigeria.
Founded in 2006—at a moment when Nigeria’s democratic transition was strained by shrinking civic space, weakened institutions, rising poverty, and limited citizen participation—CHRICED emerged as a bold and necessary civic response. For twenty years, the organization has stood firmly with communities pushed to the margins, amplifying their voices, defending their rights, and insisting that democracy must deliver dignity, justice, and opportunity for all.
From the bustling streets of Kano to rural communities in Kaduna… From the cultural heartlands of Abuja’s Original Inhabitants to vulnerable children navigating life on Nigeria’s streets… CHRICED has been present—listening, empowering, advocating, and transforming lives.
To commemorate this historic milestone, CHRICED will host its 20th Anniversary Gala and Anniversary Lecture on November 2, 2026 in Abuja, Federal Capital.
The Anniversary Lecture, titled “Reclaiming Civic Space: The Rule of Law, Democratic Accountability, and the Future of Citizen Participation in Nigeria,” will be delivered by a distinguished national figure renowned for integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to democratic reform.
The lecture will confront urgent national concerns: shrinking civic space, weakened institutions, rising intolerance, and the imperative of restoring citizens’ trust in governance.
Launch of Two Landmark Publications
As part of the celebration, CHRICED will unveil two major publications:
- Action Civics Manual for Nigerian Students – A practical guide to civic engagement, democratic participation, and youth advocacy.
- VOICES OF VIGILANCE: CHRICED’s Public Interventions in a Defining Era – A curated collection of CHRICED’s press statements from January 2020 to September 2026.
These publications reflect CHRICED’s enduring commitment to civic enlightenment, public accountability, and democratic education.
Unveiling of CHRICED Legacy House — Kano
A highlight of the anniversary is the formal unveiling of the CHRICED Legacy House in Kano—a landmark two storey civic infrastructure built with the generous support of the MacArthur Foundation.
The Legacy House features:
- A digitally enabled 100-capacity civic hall
- Conference and training rooms
- Workstation and guest facilities
- Offices and ancillary spaces
This centre will serve as a regional hub for civic education, youth empowerment, community organising, policy dialogue, and democratic engagement across Northern Nigeria.
Visitation to Partners
As part of the commemoration, CHRICED will embark on a series of thank-you visits from October 15 to November 2, engaging partners whose support has strengthened the organization’s work and impact over the years.
A Call to Partners, Citizens, and Supporters
As CHRICED celebrates this milestone, we extend heartfelt appreciation to our partners, donors, civil society organisations, community leaders, journalists, and citizens who have walked with us over the past two decades. Your trust and solidarity have been instrumental in advancing our mission.
A Future Rooted in Courage and Citizen Power
For twenty years, CHRICED has championed a simple but powerful truth: Democracy thrives when citizens do.
As we step into the next decade, our commitment remains resolute— to empower citizens, defend rights, strengthen institutions, and ensure that governance in Nigeria is people-centred, transparent, and accountable.
CHRICED @ 20 is not just a celebration. It is a renewed call to action.
Signed:
Comrade Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi
Executive Director
Resource Centre for Human Rights & Civic Education (CHRICED)