The Secretary-General of ActionAid International has praised Nigerians for their hospitality, resilience and strong sense of community during his first visit to the country, urging the government to scale up community-based solutions demonstrated by civil society organisations.
Speaking in Abuja during a visit to a women-led empowerment programme as part of activities marking ActionAid Nigeria’s 25th anniversary, the global chief of the development organisation said he arrived with mixed expectations but was quickly struck by the sincerity and openness of ordinary Nigerians.
“I had heard many things about Nigeria before coming,” he said, noting that the kindness, warmth and willingness of people to help left him with a “strong, positive impression.”
Reflecting on 25 years of ActionAid’s work in Nigeria, he said the clearest proof of impact lies not in documentation but in the testimonies of women and young people whose lives have been transformed through programme interventions. He added that ActionAid will deepen investments in these groups because they play a central role in driving lasting change.
The Secretary-General urged the federal government to create a more supportive environment for civil society organisations, stressing that their success directly translates into stronger, more resilient communities.
“NGOs can demonstrate what works, but only government has the mandate and resources to expand these solutions nationwide,” he said. He also emphasised education as a critical priority for Nigeria’s development, calling for budgetary decisions that directly impact communities.
ActionAid International reaffirmed its commitment to partnering with Nigerian communities, expanding grassroots initiatives and supporting long-term, people-centered development.
During a separate field visit to Pasepa, a hard-to-reach community in the Federal Capital Territory, Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, Dr. Ahmed Mamedu, called for urgent government investment in underserved areas. He said Pasepa reflects the reality of rural poverty often overshadowed by Abuja’s urban glamour.
He noted that ActionAid has worked in the community for over 12 years, but significant challenges persist — including difficult terrain, limited infrastructure and inadequate access to essential services.
“Are we impressed with what we are seeing? No,” Mamedu said, stressing the need for greater livelihood opportunities and improved social services.
He observed that political actors frequently visit during election seasons, proving that leaders are aware of the community’s plight and can reach it when seeking votes. He challenged them to return with infrastructure and amenities that improve lives.
The visit, he added, allowed the Secretary-General of ActionAid International to witness firsthand the conditions in some of Nigeria’s most marginalized communities.
ActionAid Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to supporting rural communities while advocating stronger government accountability and sustained investment in critical social services.
