INTRODUCTION

This Terms of Reference (ToR) is for the engagement of an independent investigative journalist to conduct and publish an investigative story/report on the successful implementation of the Court Administration and Case Management project in Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Plateau States.

The main objective of this consultancy is to conduct comprehensive research on the successes of the CACM project, focusing on the end uses and the “faces behind the criminal case files.” Additionally, the consultant will publish the findings across various news platforms.

The consultant agrees to work in accordance with the terms of reference and scope of work here embodied. 

BACKGROUND

1. The Public and Private Development Centre (PPDC) is a non-governmental organisation and social enterprise driven by the desire for a more transparent and accountable government and citizens empowered to participate actively in governance processes. PPDC focuses on strengthening and scaling reform targeting service delivery among criminal justice institutions. 
2. PPDC implemented the Court Administration and Case Management [CACM] Project funded by the United States Department of State Bureau of International Law Enforcement and Narcotics (INL) under its justice and human rights programme for Nigeria. The CACM project is implemented in 3 pilot states of Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Plateau State 
3. The aim of the CACM project is to deploy case management systems to promote speedy and efficient dispensation of justice by justice sector institutions thereby making court processes more efficient. The CACM’s project has four objectives which include:
4. Improved capacity, efficiency, and accountability in Nigeria’s court case management system
5. Improved control, preservation, and storage of evidence within the Nigerian criminal justice system
6. Improved scheduling system for court sessions and hearings in the Nigerian criminal justice system
7. Improved court administration processes within the Nigerian criminal justice system
8. The CACM project aligns with the PPDC’s Access to Justice program which aims to improve access to and dispensation of justice for Nigerians, improve citizens’ interaction with government/ law using transparency tools, and enhance States’ capacities to investigate and prosecute cases effectively.  PPDC intends to conduct an investigative report that captures the success and core values espoused within its Access to Justice initiative with its main focus being to expound on the objectives of the CACM Project. 

APPROACH AND ACTIVITIES

The consultant will be expected to conduct the following activities in close consultation with the PPDC Communication team, CACM project team.

The Consultant is expected to do the following: –

1. The consultant should submit a methodology /work plan for the engagement to the PPDC after signing of contract  
2. The consultant will conduct field research on the impact of the CACM project. 
3. The consultant will compile the research findings into a comprehensive investigative report.
4. Highlight key successes, impactful stories, and lessons learned.
5. Ensure the report is well-structured, engaging, and accessible to a broad audience.
6. The consultant will utilize all social media platforms to publicize the report once it is approved by the PPDC
7. The consultant will work with at least 10 media outlets to ensure wide coverage and dissemination of the findings

Key Deliverables

1. A detailed methodology note/work plan
2. A comprehensive investigative report that highlights CACM’s success with end users and the justice sector stakeholders
3. Publish report on at least 10 media outlets 

Duration of Contract

This contract is valid for a period of one (1) month, from 1st August 2024 to 25th August 2024. Should the consultant foresee that it is unable to deliver within the time frame, it shall notify PPDC in writing at least two weeks before the end of the contract, and PPDC shall consider an extension of the timeline at no further cost to PPDC.

PPDC shall not provide any logistics support for the delivery of this assignment. Further, the consultant shall be responsible for its own safety and security while working on this project, and for its employees deployed to work on the project. PPDC shall not be responsible or liable for the safety and security of the consultant’s staff. 

CONDITIONS OF WORK

• The Consultant will be required to travel to the locations, PPDC will not cover travel-related costs to the locations. The cost of travel should be included in your invoice.   

QUALIFICATION AND EXPERTISE 

The successful candidate is required to meet the following criteria:

• A reputable investigative media agency or organisation with at least 3 years of investigative journalism.
• Proven experience in investigative journalism
• Good understanding of the justice sector and its stakeholders. 
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and work independently.
• The Consultant should have the capacity to deliver within the specified timeframe.
• Experience working with international NGOs and initiatives will be an asset.
• Should have a registered investigative media company or entity 

PERIOD OF CONSULTANCY: 

The assignment will commence on August 1 2024 and end on August 25th, 2024.  

TO APPLY

The Consultant is expected to submit a proposal highlighting technical expertise, a work plan, and an invoice highlighting the cost implication for the assignment. Inculude your tax identification No. 

Application Closing Date 30th of July 2024 (On or before 4:00 PM)

NOTE

Proposals should be submitted electronically to: Comms@ppdc.org  stating the ToR topic in the email’s subject. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

The technical proposal must contain the following information

1.  Provide curriculum vitae detailing knowledge/experience in the above areas.
2. Provide proof of previous assignments or similar work conducted for other NGOs or related initiatives.
3.  An outline of how he/she intends to go about the consultancy [work plan].
4. Provide names of two references that can attest to the consultant’s capability to conduct the consultancy.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF PAYMENT

The Consultant will be paid the agreed fee on satisfactory completion and submission of the agreed products to PPDC. Payment will be made in two installments, 50% mobilization payment, and 50% upon satisfactory completion of the tasks assigned.

NOTE

Withholding Tax will be deducted by PPDC as stipulated by law and remitted to relevant tax authorities. Other taxes are to be paid directly by the consultant.