Abuja, Nigeria – March 8, 2025 – International Women’s Day, first recognized by the United Nations in 1977, remains a vital global platform for celebrating progress and tackling the persistent challenges to achieving gender equality. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” highlights the urgent need for collective, decisive efforts to break systemic barriers and create a more equitable society.
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing gender equality through advocacy and systemic reforms. As a non-governmental organization and social enterprise, PPDC promotes transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance. A core aspect of our work focuses on gender-responsive reforms, ensuring that women have equal opportunities in economic and political participation, as well as access to justice.
Through research, advocacy, system strengthening, and capacity-building initiatives, PPDC has empowered over 1,000 women. Notably, our research has contributed to the adoption of the Women’s Economic Empowerment Bill and Action Plan in Kaduna State, marking a significant step toward institutionalizing policies that support women’s inclusion and economic growth.
Despite significant strides in the past 30 years, at the current pace, full gender equality may not be achieved until 2158, a delay that is unacceptable. To close this gap, urgent measures must be taken.
Call To Action
Sustain the enforcement of the implementation of the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act to protect women from all forms of violence and ensure legal safeguards for victims and survivors.
Accelerate the implementation of the National Gender Policy to drive gender-inclusive reforms in governance, economic participation, and leadership.
Fast-track the passage of the Alteration Bill for Special Seats for Women (HB 1349) to increase women’s representation in the National and State Houses of Assembly.
Close the gender pay gap by ensuring equal economic participation, fair wages, and greater representation of women in decision-making roles.
Implement the National Action Plan for United Nations Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 to recognize the impact of conflict on women and strengthen their role in peace and security processes.
Eradicate harmful socio-cultural norms that perpetuate discrimination, human rights violations, femicide and gender-based violence.
PPDC remains steadfast in its advocacy for inclusive governance, economic justice, and policies that empower women. As we commemorate this day, we call on governments, the private sector, and civil society to move beyond commitments and take concrete, immediate action. The time for equality is now.
About PPDC
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-profit organisation committed to improving citizens participation in governance in a way that improves the integrity of public governance processes, fostering transparent and accountable governance. We empower citizens to actively participate in shaping their communities by driving institutional, behavioural, and systemic change.
Abuja, 14 February 2025 –Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-governmental organization and social enterprise driven by the desire to have a more transparent and accountable government as well as citizens empowered to actively participate in governance processes. Our programs are designed to promote values and initiatives which drive institutional, behavioural and systemic change on a large scale and in a way that will benefit society and its development. PPDC provides the strongest Civil Society voice in support of procurement reforms in Nigeria.
The Nigeria government has committed to addressing corruption and has taken steps to accomplish this, even though the scourge still persists. On Tuesday, 11th February, 2025, the Transparency International (TI), officially launched the 2024 Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI). Nigeria’s 2024 CPI score is 26 out of 100, showing a slight improvement from 25 in 2023. Its global ranking also improved from 145th to 140th out of 180 countries.
PPDC emphasizes that while Nigeria has made some efforts in tackling corruption, systemic weaknesses persist. The CPI does not measure the number of anti-corruption agencies, but rather the effectiveness and efficiency of systems in curbing corruption. It is essential to recognize the ongoing challenges and emerging threats in the fight against corruption. Modern issues such as digital corruption, transnational corruption, and corruption in emerging technologies continue to evolve, requiring adaptive and proactive solutions.
At the PPDC, we recognize that a united front is essential to overcoming the complex and interconnected challenges posed by corruption, therefore in the spirit of sustained advocacy we make the following call to action;
Public procurement remains one of the most corruption-prone areas in governance. The 2021 Auditor General’s report highlights significant fraud within procurement processes. Establishing the National Procurement Council will strengthen oversight and reduce corruption risks.
The Nigerian government recently recovered $52.88 million linked to former oil minister Diezani Alison-Madueke. We call for full transparency and accountability in managing these funds to ensure they benefit Nigerian citizens.
A comprehensive Whistleblower Protection Act is critical in encouraging Nigerians to report corruption without fear of retaliation. Legal protection for whistleblowers will enhance public participation in the fight against corruption.
Compliance to Freedom of Information requests by the MDAs from the members of the civil societies and media need to be improved. Strengthening compliance will enhance access to information and promote transparency.
Agencies leading the implementation of Nigeria’s National Action Plan (NAP) on Open Government Partnership (OGP) must show greater political will in fulfilling their commitments. Aligning these efforts with citizen-driven service delivery initiatives will strengthen governance.
Investigations and prosecutions especially of politically exposed persons and high-profile corruption cases. Greater synergy will lead to more convictions and a stronger deterrent effect. Doing the above PPDC belief next year CPI will be better
About The Public and Private Development Centre
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-profit organisation committed to improving citizens participation in governance in a way that improves the integrity of public governance processes, fostering transparent and accountable governance. We empower citizens to actively participate in shaping their communities by driving institutional, behavioural, and systemic change.
Abuja, 12th February 2025 – In a groundbreaking partnership aimed at improving access to justice and promoting affordable housing for Nigerian residents, the Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shelta Panacea Limited, a PropTech company dedicated to solving the common problem that exists between property owners and property users. Through this partnership, 10,000 landlords across Nigeria will receive free litigation cover and legal representation.
PPDC’s program interventions address both the demand and the supply side. The ‘demand side’ refers to the users of the public sector and to those demanding improved service delivery, protection of human rights, or reform, often represented by civil society. The ‘supply side’ refers to those institutions, organizations, and individuals that provide public services – through both formal and informal mediums.
Inorder to ensure Increased compliance, Improved landlord-tenant relationships, Reduced disputes,Increased property values as well-informed landlords may be more likely to maintain their properties, adhere to safety standards, and make necessary repairs, and Support for small landlords, The PPDC Access to Justice Program, which has successfully provided pro bono legal services to over 9,000 Nigerians and strengthened justice sector reforms, will leverage its technological legal innovations and network of lawyers to support Shelta Panacea’s mission. PPDC will play a critical role in recruiting, supervising, and ensuring fair remuneration for lawyers handling these cases.
“PPDC has always been committed to ensuring access to justice for all, particularly for vulnerable and marginalized groups. This collaboration with Shelta Panacea allows us to extend our expertise beyond the criminal justice space to civil disputes, ensuring that landlords who may otherwise struggle with prolonged legal battles can access professional legal representation at no cost.” – Lucy Abagi- Chief Executive Officer, PPDC
Our goal is to bridge the legal gap between landlords and tenants in Nigeria. With PPDC’s extensive experience in justice sector interventions, this partnership is a crucial step in ensuring landlords receive the necessary legal support to protect their rights while promoting fair and transparent dispute resolution.
This partnership aligns with PPDC’s broader commitment to transparency, accountability, and the protection of citizens’ rights, reinforcing its role as a leading advocate for justice sector reforms in Nigeria.
About The Public and Private Development Centre
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-profit organisation committed to improving citizens participation in governance in a way that improves the integrity of public governance processes, fostering transparent and accountable governance. We empower citizens to actively participate in shaping their communities by driving institutional, behavioural, and systemic change.
About Shelta
Shelta is a PropTech Startup that provides guaranteed annual rent for Landlords & flexible (monthly, biannual, quarterly) rent payment for tenants. Shelta takes away the friction between Landlord-Tenant relationships through our rent financing solution. We stand in as pressure absorbers and risk takers for Landlords with our guaranteed rent, property management and free litigation coverage services.
December 9, 2024 – Abuja, Nigeria – Corruption in public procurement processes remains one of the most significant challenges to Nigeria’s economic and social development. Inefficiencies, mismanagement, and fraud continue to divert public resources and erode citizen trust, despite the provisions of the Public Procurement Act, the World Bank’s State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability (SFTAS) program, and other public finance management laws and initiatives. These systemic issues undermine fair business practices, limit oversight, and obstruct the government’s ability to deliver essential public services.
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a leading non-governmental organization committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in governance processes. As a pioneer in public procurement reform advocacy, PPDC empowers citizens and fosters institutional, behavioral, and systemic changes that drive good governance and sustainable development in Nigeria. PPDC also serves as a strong civil society voice in the fight against corruption, leveraging innovative solutions to address governance challenges.
By resolution 58/4 of October 31, 2003, the UN General Assembly designated December 9 as International Anti-Corruption Day to raise awareness of corruption and promote the role of the United Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC). The fight against corruption demands transparency, accountability, and participation from all sectors of society, including governments, the private sector, media, civil society organizations, and the public.
PPDC proudly joins the global community in commemorating International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 under the theme “Uniting with Youth Against Corruption: Shaping Tomorrow’s Integrity.” This theme underscores the critical role of young people as drivers of innovation, resilience, and leadership in anti-corruption efforts. While youth are often the most affected by corruption, they also hold the solutions to create a future rooted in integrity and collaboration.
While celebrating successes, it is crucial to address persistent challenges such as digital corruption, transnational bribery, and corruption in emerging technologies. International Anti-Corruption Day 2024 serves as a platform to evaluate the capacity of anti-corruption agencies and MDAs to address these challenges effectively. It is also a call to renew commitments to international treaties and conventions while embracing innovative strategies to tackle corruption in the 21st century.
In line with this year’s theme, PPDC calls for the following actions:
Strengthen collaboration and cooperation among stakeholders to effectively combat corruption.
Invest in youth empowerment by building a cadre of well-informed, skilled, and motivated young leaders.
Leverage technology to promote transparency, enhance accountability, and increase citizen engagement in governance.
Reinforce anti-corruption institutions to ensure they remain independent, robust, and accountable.
On this day, we urge relevant government agencies to unite against corruption. The challenges before us are significant, but our collective strength can overcome them. Let this be a moment to recommit to building a society rooted in integrity, accountability, and transparency.
This year, PPDC joins other stakeholders—including political leaders, governments, professional bodies, and advocacy groups—to commemorate International Anti-Corruption Day 2024. We are determined to spotlight the 28 cross-cutting issues identified in the 2021 Audit Report of the Office of the Auditor-General for the Federation, which reveals systemic lapses that require urgent attention:
Irregularities in the Award of Contracts: ₦7.4 billion flagged across 32 MDAs, with the largest violations recorded by the Rural Electrification Agency (₦2.12 billion).
Irregular Payments: ₦115.8 billion in questionable transactions across 64 MDAs, undermining financial accountability.
Payments for Jobs/Contracts Not Executed: ₦167.6 billion identified as payments for unexecuted contracts, highlighting significant oversight failures.
Non-Deduction of Taxes: ₦2.6 billion in taxes unpaid across 21 MDAs, compromising revenue generation.
These findings emphasize the need for stronger enforcement of financial regulations, transparency in public procurement, and enhanced legislative oversight.
As outlined in the audit report, additional concerns include contract splitting, unauthorized payments, non-remittance of internally generated revenue, and awarding contracts to non-existent companies. Such practices highlight systemic failures that demand immediate and coordinated action.
About PPDC:
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-governmental organization and social enterprise driven by the desire to have a more transparent and accountable government and to increase citizens’ participation in governance processes. Our programs are designed to promote values and initiatives that drive institutional, behavioural, and systemic change in our society inclusive of expanding access to justice in Nigeria. More information on Public and Private Development Centre can be found at www.ppdc.org
Abuja, Nigeria – July 2024 – The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) convened a pivotal Civil Society Town Hall meeting to comprehensively assess President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which began in May 2023. This initiative aimed to align evidence-based analyses across various sectors, highlighting key activities, focus areas, and anticipated outcomes in collaboration with stakeholders.
President Tinubu’s administration had prioritized economic revitalization, security enhancements, and infrastructure development as central pillars of its agenda. Initiatives to combat corruption, attract foreign investment, and spur job creation through economic reforms underscore the government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth and stability. Furthermore, efforts focused on bolstering national security, improving education and healthcare systems, and advancing digital infrastructure to address contemporary challenges.
The PPDC’s Civil Society Town Hall provided a platform to consolidate diverse perspectives from Nigerian citizens, civil society organizations, government officials, donors/partners, and the media. During the session, the scorecard from Invictus Africa, indicated a 20% measure in improving educational access under this administration. joint recommendations based on findings were crafted into a unified report aimed at guiding future policy discourse.
“We believed that a focused and inclusive dialogue reflecting the voices of the Nigerian people was critical for promoting transparency, good governance, and sustainable development,” said Lucy Abagi, speaking on behalf of PPDC CEO Jubril Shittu. “Our assessment aimed to facilitate informed decision-making and enhance accountability, paving the way towards inclusive growth and democratic practices.”
For further information or media inquiries, please contact:
Munachi Okoro Head of Communications and Knowledge Management Public and Private Development Centre
About PPDC: The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is committed to promoting transparency, accountability, and efficiency in public procurement processes across Nigeria. Through advocacy and capacity building, PPDC empowers citizens and stakeholders to engage in governance and policy reform actively.
The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) has successfully held a two day training for more than 50 Police Duty Solicitors. This training initiative is aimed at addressing critical issues related to detention in Nigeria. The newly trained solicitors will provide free legal services at police stations across Adamawa, Kaduna, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), and Nasarawa state, ensuring compliance with legal and constitutional obligations concerning the arrest, detention, and trial procedures of suspects by the Nigerian Police Force.
In his opening remarks, Chief Executive Officer Mr. Jubril Shittu emphasized the significance of this gathering as a pivotal step towards enhancing the justice system. “PPDC is committed to catalysing societal transformation towards enhanced governance transparency, accountability, and active citizen participation. Our Access to Justice program tackles pressing issues and fosters evidence-based solutions, promoting a more just and equitable society. Through targeted strategic initiatives, we are committed to enhancing the operational capabilities of these institutions, making justice delivery more efficient and equitable.,” said Mr. Shittu.
The Police Duty Solicitors Scheme (PDSS) is a key component of the ongoing RPDN phase II Project. This initiative aims to equip and prepare Corps members and young lawyers (1-5 years post-call) with the practical skills necessary for effective intervention at detention facilities. The training emphasized relationship management with police officers and provided participants with the knowledge to fulfill their roles as duty solicitors.
The training sessions included a general discussion on Access to Justice, underscoring PDSS as a crucial initiative to protect detainees’ rights and ensure broader access to justice. Specialized sessions with experts covered the roles and responsibilities of duty solicitors, the legal framework and rights of detainees, and effective case management and documentation practices.
Participants also received comprehensive knowledge about PPDC’s Access to Justice (A2J) Programs, ensuring they are well-equipped to support detainees and uphold justice within the Nigerian legal system.
The Public and Private Development Centre remains dedicated to strengthening Nigeria’s justice system and protecting detainees’ rights. This training program marks a significant step towards these goals, contributing to the establishment of a more just and equitable society.
