Key points
- CDD launches 2026–2030 strategic plan to counter democratic backsliding and rising insecurity.
- Report highlights resurgence of coups, weak institutions and declining public trust in governance.
- Stakeholders call for citizen-driven democracy and inclusive development across the region.
Main story
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) has unveiled a five-year strategic plan aimed at reversing democratic decline, addressing insecurity and promoting inclusive development across West Africa.
Director of the organisation, Dauda Garuba, disclosed this at the unveiling of the 2026–2030 strategy in Abuja, warning that decades of progress in democratic governance and regional stability are increasingly under threat.
Garuba said the region currently reflects a mix of progress and regression, noting that while countries such as Senegal and Ghana have sustained democratic stability, others continue to grapple with authoritarian tendencies.
He cited the resurgence of military coups and constitutional manipulations in countries including Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea and Togo, as well as growing public distrust in electoral systems weakened by corruption.
“The rise of military-led populism in Mali, Burkina Faso, Niger and Guinea-Bissau further complicates the region’s democratic landscape,” he said.
Garuba added that beyond governance challenges, the region is facing a worsening humanitarian crisis, with millions affected by food insecurity, displacement and malnutrition.
The issues
According to CDD, about 44.3 million people in West Africa and the Sahel are experiencing acute food insecurity, while 9.7 million have been displaced and 14 million children suffer from acute malnutrition.
The organisation noted that weak institutions, corruption, poor governance and the erosion of public trust have contributed to democratic instability and rising insecurity.
It also warned that the disconnect between governance systems and citizens’ needs has fuelled unrest and increased the risk of further political instability.
What’s being said
Garuba said the new strategy focuses on defending democracy, preventing conflict and promoting people-centred development through strengthened institutions and increased citizen participation.
“We aim to defend democracy, stop violence and support development for all people. The plan focuses on rebuilding peace, reducing inequality and improving living conditions,” he said.
In his keynote address, former CDD Director, Jubrin Ibrahim, argued that economic development must prioritise the welfare of the majority, stressing that reliance on political elites alone has weakened democratic systems.
“True and lasting democracy can only be achieved when ordinary citizens actively participate in defending and sustaining it,” he said.
Panelists at the event, including Nana Tanko, Hussaini Abdu and Okechukwu Ibeanu, noted that democracy in the region has not entirely failed but is undermined by systemic governance failures and a breakdown of the social contract.
What’s next
CDD said it would work with governments, civil society organisations, private sector stakeholders and international partners to implement the strategy across the region.
The organisation also plans to strengthen collaboration with regional bodies such as the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union to promote democratic governance and peacebuilding initiatives.
Bottom Line
With rising insecurity, democratic backsliding and humanitarian pressures, stakeholders say West Africa must prioritise citizen-driven governance and inclusive development to safeguard democracy and ensure long-term regional stability.
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