European Union

Abuja, Tuesday, June 26, 2012 – The European Union (EU) Delegation to Nigeria and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Country Office are pleased to announce the continuation of their collaboration in a joint donor basket fund project aimed at deepening democracy in Nigeria. The EU is renewing its commitment to the Democratic Governance for Development project (Phase II) with the provision of 19.1 million euros (more than N4 billion).
 
A new Financing Agreement will be signed between the European Union and the Federal Government of Nigeria at the National Planning Commission in Abuja on Wednesday, June 27. The Minister of National Planning, as well as other representatives of the Nigerian government, members of the National Assembly, representatives of the diplomatic community, civil society, the media and other stakeholders are expected to attend the signing ceremony.

The  Democratic Governance for Development (DGD) project is aimed at strengthening the democratic character of Nigerian political processes and outcomes through consolidating and advancing democratic governance and accountability, to achieve the country’s stated development priorities and goals.

The EU support to DGD II will facilitate the promotion of credible, transparent and sustainable electoral processes; improve the democratic quality of political engagement through support to political parties and the National Assembly; enhance participation by women, youth and other marginalized groups; and strengthen the channels of civic engagement. The project interventions will commence in July 2012.

Explaining the rationale for the EU’s continued support to the democratic governance project, the Head of the EU Delegation to Nigeria, Ambassador David MacRae, said:

 “'The overall objective of our support is to promote good governance and contribute to Nigeria’s efforts in enhancing transparency and accountability. The project also seeks to contribute towards the consolidation of Nigeria's democratic process."

The UN Resident Coordinator / UNDP Resident Representative,  Mr. Daouda Toure, expressed his delight at the continued partnership with the European Union. Mr. Toure said: “The EU has been a strong partner in deepening democracy in Nigeria and the renewed commitment of the EU Delegation to DGD II will further broaden citizen participation and strengthen the democratic process.”

DGD II is a joint donor-funded project managed by UNDP in support of deepening democracy in Nigeria. The project is funded with contributions from the EU, the UK Department for International Development (DFID), the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), and the UNDP.  The project provides technical and financial support to the Independent National Electoral Commission, civil society organizations, and institutions such as the judiciary, the media, national and state assemblies, and political parties as a means of strengthening accountable and responsive governance institutions, and consolidating democratic governance in line with international best practices.