Yusuf Tuggar, minister of foreign affairs, speaking at the signing ceremony of the regional partnership for democracy (RPD) programme in Abuja on November 17, 2025
The ministry of foreign affairs and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) have signed a regional partnership for democracy (RPD) programme, an initiative designed to strengthen democratic governance across West Africa.
The initiative addresses challenges like eroding public trust, disputed elections, and shrinking civic freedoms through African-led strategies.
Yusuf Tuggar, minister of foreign affairs, said core elements would include bolstering electoral bodies, early-warning systems against unconstitutional changes, empowering youth and civil society, and combating election misinformation.
He noted that the RPD would build platforms for cooperation across West Africa so member states can learn from each other and solve challenges together.
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The signing ceremony was held on Monday in Abuja, where the RPD secretariat will be situated.
Tuggar said the initiative was formed through months of consultation, technical work, regional dialogue, and direct engagement with civil society, youth networks, traditional authorities, academics, and the diplomatic community.
“This is a long-term investment in trust, inclusion, and accountable leadership — values that sit at the heart of governance,” the minister said.
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“The programme will directly support the achievement of SDG 16 (Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions) and will help rebuild confidence in democracy across our subregion.
“Nigeria is honoured to champion this effort. Our influence, democratic tradition, and longstanding commitment to peace and regional stability place a responsibility on us; and it is one we fully embrace.
“Democracy must deliver. And today, we commit to making that a reality for West Africans.”
In September, Tuggar told TheCable that Nigeria would present the RPD at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York to secure multilateral buy-in for the project.
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He expressed optimism that though most of West Africa has been unsettled, substantial partnerships can still be formed.
