Distinguished partners, esteemed stakeholders, representatives of the media, civil society actors, government officials, development partners, and all advocates of justice and accountability here today—good morning.

It is with profound gratitude and a deep sense of purpose that I welcome you, on behalf of the CHRICED Board of Directors, to this Stakeholders’ Meeting, convened under the theme: “The Future of Independent Media and Human Rights Reporting in Nigeria.” To help us reflect on this critical subject, we are honoured to have with us Comrade Owei Lakemfa—a distinguished labour leader, journalist, Pan-Africanist, and human rights advocate. Your presence here is not only appreciated; it is a powerful affirmation that the struggle for truth, justice, and democratic accountability is one we must continue to wage together.

Today, we meet at a defining moment in our nation’s history. Across Nigeria, the space for independent voices is shrinking. Journalists face intimidation, civic actors confront repression, and communities—especially the most vulnerable—struggle to have their stories heard. Yet, despite these challenges, we also stand before immense possibilities. Technology is amplifying citizen voices. Young people are demanding transparency. Communities are insisting on dignity. And the Nigerian people, resilient as always, continue to push for a nation where rights are respected and governance truly serves the public good.

It is within this context that CHRICED, in partnership with WELTFILME, Germany, is proud to introduce a bold and transformative initiative—the “Make It Count” Project.

This project is more than a programme; it is a movement.
A movement to strengthen independent media.
A movement to amplify human rights reporting.
A movement to ensure that the voices of ordinary Nigerians—women, youth, persons with disabilities, and marginalized communities—truly count in shaping the future of our democracy.

Through Make It Count, we aim to nurture a new generation of citizen reporters, empower community-based storytellers, and support media platforms courageous enough to speak truth to power. We will invest in training, technology, and collaborative networks that enable journalists and civic actors to document abuses, expose corruption, and highlight stories of resilience and hope.

But let me be clear: this project is not about CHRICED alone. It is about all of us—the ecosystem of actors who believe that democracy cannot thrive without a free press, that human rights cannot be protected without fearless reporting, and that development cannot be sustained without accountability.

This is why today’s gathering is so important. Your insights, experiences, recommendations, and partnership will shape the direction and impact of this initiative. Together, we will define strategies that are practical, inclusive, and transformative. Together, we will build a media and civic landscape where truth is not silenced, where journalists are protected, and where every Nigerian—regardless of status—has the power to make their voice count.

And so, with great pride and unwavering optimism, I stand before you today to officially unveil the “Make It Count” Project—a project dedicated to strengthening independent media, advancing human rights reporting, and empowering citizens to shape the Nigeria they deserve.

I invite you all to join hands with us. Let us think boldly, collaborate deeply, and act decisively. Let us commit ourselves to building a future where information is free, rights are protected, and democracy is meaningful for every Nigerian.

Before I conclude, allow me to express my sincere appreciation to the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) for providing the funding support through WELTFILME e.V, Germany that has made the Make It Count project possible. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and for BMZ’s unwavering commitment to strengthening democratic values, human rights, and civic participation.

I also extend heartfelt thanks to Ms. Fiona Klassen, Programme Director at WELTFILME, and her indefatigable team. My appreciation goes to the WELTFILME Project Team Lead in Nigeria, Mrs. Julia Krojer, who has worked tirelessly with the CHRICED team from inception to this moment to bring this project to life. To the Make It Count Project Manager, Mr. Kolawole Omoniyi, and his dedicated team, thank you for putting together this event. And to all our distinguished guests, thank you for your presence, your partnership, and your unwavering belief in this cause.

Together, let us make it count.