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Monday 09:00 - 17:00 Tuesday 09:00 - 17:00 Wednesday 09:00 - 17:00 Thursday 09:00 - 17:00 Friday 09:00 - 17:00

SDN

SDN supports the efforts of those affected by the extractives industry and weak governance. Our work currently focuses on the Niger Delta.
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Our organisational pillars of research & advocacy and supporting core tools of capacity building and pilot projects help facilitate communities and civil society to communicate a shared vision and negotiate with other stakeholders to get a better deal from the investments and operations that affect their lives, livelihoods and environment.

01/07/2026

SDN recently convened a Town Hall on: “Maximising the Benefits of HCDTs in Host Communities in the Niger Delta," bringing together everyone with a stake in how HCDTs actually function, National Assembly members, NUPRC and NMDPRA regulators, HCDT board of trustees and administrators, settlors, host community representatives, civil society, academia, and industry. It wasn't a ceremonial gathering, it was a working session on what's functioning under the Petroleum Industry Act's HCDT framework and what isn't.

The centrepiece of the day was the launch of SDN's I-HCDT platform, an independent Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, Reporting and Learning system built to track HCDT implementation outside of settlor or trust-controlled reporting channels. The logic is straightforward: HCDT governance has operated with limited independent verification since the PIA mandated the 3% operating expenditure contributions, leaving communities with little reliable way to check fund utilisation, project delivery, or board compliance against trust deeds. I-HCDT now provides regulators, communities, and oversight bodies with a shared, evidence-based reference point rather than relying solely on self-reported trust data.

Alongside the platform, SDN presented its research, "Evaluation of the Implementation Status of Host Community Development Trusts in the Niger Delta." Rather than relying on reports from the Trusts themselves, the findings came straight from the communities living with HCDT implementation, what's reaching them, what isn't, and where the gaps are. It stands as one of the more thorough independent looks at HCDT performance since the Trusts came into operation, and it didn't stop at pointing out problems, it laid out concrete recommendations for tighter transparency and stronger accountability at the trust level.

The message from the day was simple, good policy only matters if it's actually monitored and communities actually know what's happening, that’s the gap SDN is working to close, through independent data, real evidence, and honest conversation between regulators, trusts, and the people these Trusts were built to serve.

12/06/2026

Today, as Nigeria marks Democracy Day, we stand at a crossroads, we reflect with a sombre heart on the persistent challenges that test our democratic journey, from the weight of weak governance and insecurity to the growing pressures of environmental and climate crises. We recognize that for many, the promise of democracy remains unfulfilled, and the work to ensure it delivers for every citizen is far from over.

At SDN, we believe democracy is far more than the act of casting a ballot, It is the pulse of accountable institutions, the energy of active citizenship, and the justice of inclusive decision-making. It is about ensuring that even the most remote communities have a meaningful voice in the policies that shape their futures.

For over twenty years, we have been privileged to stand alongside communities in the Niger Delta, translating that belief into practice, even under difficult conditions. We have trained and deployed citizen election observers, we have amplified the voices of women, youth, and persons with disabilities in governance processes.

We have expanded civic space, and supported communities in demanding transparency in the management of public resources and development funds, through our democratic governance work, we have strived to ensure that marginalised groups are not merely present in governance processes, but genuinely powerful within them, holding leaders accountable and advocating for improvements in public services.

Our work in resource governance and environmental accountability has built something that cannot be easily measured but must not be underestimated, trust between communities, government, and stakeholders, that trust is the bedrock of a functioning social contract. We remain resolute in our commitment to holding extractive industries accountable, advancing sustainable livelihoods, and ensuring that the particular and urgent challenges of the Niger Delta retain their rightful place on national and international agendas.

We believe without reservation that democracy flourishes when citizens are informed and empowered, when institutions are genuinely responsive, and when every voice is accorded equal weight, regardless of gender, age, disability, or origin. For the Niger Delta, this means converting the pain of environmental degradation and decades of marginalisation into purposeful, principled advocacy for justice.

On this Democracy Day 2026, SDN reaffirms its unwavering commitment to a Niger Delta that is peaceful, prosperous, and free from pollution, governed inclusively, held accountable, and shaped by the full and meaningful participation of its communities. Democracy is not a destination, It is a discipline, one that demands courage, perseverance, and the active engagement of every citizen. Let this day renew our resolve.

The work continues, our hope is unshaken, together, we have both the obligation and the capacity to build the Nigeria every citizen deserves.

05/06/2026

Inspired by Nature: For Climate, For Our Future,

The solutions to our most pressing climate challenges are not awaiting discovery, they are already present within our environment, evident in the soil, flowing through our rivers and embodied in the knowledge of communities that have maintained harmonious relationships with nature for generations. This is particularly evident in the Niger Delta, a region where the relationship between humanity and nature is fundamentally intertwined.

Wetlands serve as vital filters and protectors of ecosystems, forests breathe life into the atmosphere and act as natural buffers, rivers nourish and connect diverse communities, and coastlines provide essential protection and sustenance. These landscapes constitute not just environmental features but the very infrastructure of life for millions of residents in the Niger Delta. Unfortunately, these ecosystems are facing significant threats.

Pollution, environmental degradation, unsustainable practices and a climate crisis, one that the region did not instigate are adversely impacting communities that have already sacrificed much and received far too little in return.

At Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN), we firmly believe that environmental protection and community development are not distinct goals, they are intertwined elements of the same mission, achieving this mission requires strong political will. While Nigeria has established frameworks, including policies, commitments, and legislation aimed at environmental protection and climate action, the mere existence of these policies is insufficient. Genuine change occurs only when governments are held accountable for their commitments, when communities possess the power to demand implementation rather than mere consultation.

This is where our role becomes pivotal, we advocate for enhanced environmental accountability throughout the Niger Delta. We independently monitor the cleanup of Ogoniland to ensure the Federal Government fulfils one of the most significant environmental remediation commitments in Africa. Furthermore, we work to strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to measure and mitigate methane and other short-lived climate pollutants, recognising that effective management relies on accurate measurement.

In addition, we strive to amplify the voices of communities that are often marginalized in discussions of environmental governance. We are convinced that when policy is aligned with accountability, and both are grounded in the realities faced by those most affected, climate action can become substantial, impactful, and transformative.

On this World Environment Day, we recognise and celebrate every community leader, researcher, policymaker, and environmental advocate who is proving that the most effective climate solutions emerge from local knowledge, collaborative efforts, and the resolve to hold governments accountable for their commitments.

01/06/2026

How can you determine the effectiveness of community development initiatives?

This question lies at the heart of why Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) facilitated a two-day training workshop for the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) on strengthening Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, Reporting, and Learning (MEARL) Systems for Host Community Development Trusts (HCDTs).

Here's the context:

Under the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA), Host Community Development Trusts were established to ensure that oil and gas-producing communities across the Niger Delta receive tangible, structured development benefits from operations in their areas, but establishing HCDTs is only the first step. The harder question is, are they actually delivering? Are resources being used effectively? Are communities experiencing real impact? And where things aren't working, what needs to change? That's exactly where MEARL comes in.

The workshop built a shared understanding of Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, Reporting, and Learning, and why each component is essential to NUPRC's regulatory role in overseeing HCDTs. Strong MEARL systems give regulators the tools to move beyond passive oversight, tracking implementation, assessing real community outcomes, ensuring accountability, and using evidence to continuously adapt their approach.

As HCDTs continue to mature across the Niger Delta, this kind of regulatory sophistication isn't optional. It is the foundation for ensuring that the PIA's promise translates into genuine, sustainable development for host communities.

15/05/2026

Regulation is only as strong as the technical capacity behind it. While many climate discussions focus on targets, fewer address whether the institutions responsible for meeting those targets actually have the necessary technical tools.

This gap is exactly what the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) and the Global Methane Hub aim to close. With support from the Global Methane Hub, the Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) convened the technical teams from NUPRC and NMDPRA for an intensive capacity-building session focused on methane abatement in Nigeria's oil and gas industry. Here's why this is important: Methane leaks silently through pipelines, compressors, storage tanks, and flaring operations, often going undetected and unmeasured.

As one of the largest sources of methane emissions in Africa, Nigeria's oil and gas sector faces a significant challenge, measuring, monitoring, and attributing methane emissions is notoriously difficult. Factors such as venting, fugitive leaks and incomplete flaring contribute to a complex emissions profile that requires regulatory sophistication, not just goodwill. Without regulators equipped to understand this landscape, even the best policies may fail during implementation.

The sessions focused on key priority areas for advancing methane abatement in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, including measurement and detection approaches, mitigation strategies, financing considerations, and regulatory alignment. Rather than remaining theoretical, the discussions were grounded in real world regulatory and operational challenges.

Participants examined the practical gaps between policy expectations and on the ground implementation, and explored ways to strengthen coherence between Nigeria’s climate commitments and regulatory action under Nigeria's Third Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs 3.0). This approach helped deepen understanding of the systemic issues that must be addressed to enable effective and sustained methane reduction across the sector

14/04/2026

Stakeholder Democracy Network (SDN) is excited to announce the successful completion of a series of capacity-building training sessions in Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and Akwa Ibom. These dynamic sessions brought together the HCDT Advisory Committee members and dedicated community-based Independent HCDT Data Reporting Agents. Our mission? To empower participants with essential skills for effective monitoring, reporting, and evaluation of HCDT initiatives in the vibrant Niger Delta region.

A highlight of the training was the unveiling of the I-HCDT Monitor, an innovative digital tool designed by SDN. This groundbreaking tool empowers communities to track projects, access essential information, and report on HCDT activities in real time, revolutionising engagement with development efforts.

The key takeaway from our sessions was clear, when communities are equipped with the right tools and knowledge, they can confidently demand accountability, monitor progress, and significantly shape their futures. We are inspired by the power of technology, especially when it is developed in partnership with the people it serves. It fosters information sharing, promotes transparency, and amplifies community voices.

SDN remains committed to advancing inclusive participation, strengthening local ownership, and driving accountability across development efforts in the Niger Delta, because lasting progress must be shaped by the people it serves.

26/03/2026

SDN recently hosted a multi-stakeholder roundtable, bringing together dedicated representatives from INEC, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), the Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare, the National Orientation Agency, and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC).

Our goal? To enhance inclusive participation in the electoral process throughout Rivers State. This engaging dialogue highlighted several important barriers faced by PWDs, including challenges with voter registration and access to Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), as well as barriers to their involvement in political parties. Stakeholders passionately stressed the need for innovative tailored solutions that truly address the unique needs of individuals with disabilities.

We also shared SDN's ongoing initiatives to promote inclusion, including incorporating PWD priorities into the Women and Youth Agenda and maintaining strong partnerships with political parties to advance inclusive policies and practices. Participants recognised the significant strides made by INEC, like decentralising voter registration and implementing online options. The introduction of sign language interpreters was particularly noteworthy.

Yet, there is a strong call for even more practical support, think assistive voting tools and increased public awareness. SDN is wholeheartedly committed to collaborating with all stakeholders to build robust, inclusive systems, ensuring that everyone can proudly participate in our democratic process.

Together, we can create a future where no one is left behind!

24/03/2026

Join us for an important conversation on Responsible Divestment.

SOMO, SDN, and AIDA are proud to launch the International Principles for Responsible Divestment, and we invite you to be part of this milestone event.

Date: 24 March 2026
Time: 15:00 – 16:30 WAT

Hear from leading voices as they share insights on building a just and inclusive transition away from fossil fuels.

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_4tJZK8TKQCG0Yq3kv278ow #/

08/03/2026

Today, we joyfully celebrate the incredible strength, resilience, and transformative contributions of women in Nigeria’s digital economy! At SDN, we believe digital inclusion is about much more than access to technology; it’s about unlocking opportunities, fostering economic empowerment, and tackling the structural inequalities that have historically held women back in the workforce.

Our insightful research, "Digital Delta: The Digital Gender Gap in the Niger Delta," highlights both the progress we’ve made together and the challenges that remain in ensuring all women can fully engage in the digital economy. While it’s inspiring to see that over two-thirds of adults in the Niger Delta are now online, we must acknowledge that women are still about 11% less likely than men to access the internet, leaving approximately 1.7 million women offline across the four key states in the region.

This gap is significant, especially as more economic activities, entrepreneurial ventures, and career opportunities shift online. If we don’t address this digital exclusion, we risk exacerbating existing inequalities. Additionally, our findings reveal that even among women who own smartphones, many lack the confidence, training, or awareness to navigate digital pathways that could lead to remote work, business growth, and active participation in the digital landscape.

For over five years, SDN has worked to dismantle these barriers by equipping women with essential digital and soft skills, supporting women-led businesses in harnessing digital tools, and advocating for policies that foster gender-inclusive digital ecosystems throughout the Niger Delta. Through initiatives like the "Reducing Digital Gender Gaps in the Niger Delta" project, we have proudly trained over 1,500 women and collaborated with civil society and government to ensure that women are not just connected but genuinely empowered to thrive in this digital age.

As we celebrate International Women’s Day 2026, we reaffirm our unwavering commitment to equipping women across the Niger Delta with the skills, confidence, and opportunities necessary to shape the region’s digital future. Happy International Women’s Day!

We invite you to explore our report: "Digital Delta: Reducing Digital Gender Gap in the Niger Delta."

Read the full report here: https://sdn.ngo/reducing-digital-gender-gaps-in-the-niger-delta/

09/02/2026

SDN is excited to support the Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD), Rivers State Chapter, to advance accessibility and representation in the electoral process. A 7-point communique was presented at a rally recently held to INEC office in Port Harcourt.

This communique emerged from a brainstorming session in December 2025, during which various disability clusters collaborated with the Rivers State Ministry of Social Welfare and Rehabilitation to develop recommendations to deepen their inclusion in the electoral process before and during elections.

This is part of SDN's Strengthening Inclusion and Participation (SIP) Project, supported by the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC).

At SDN, we are dedicated to fostering an inclusive democracy. We believe that a vibrant society empowers everyone, regardless of their abilities, to express their opinions and make meaningful contributions.

Our goal is to enhance citizen engagement in political, electoral, and developmental areas. Together, let’s strive for a more equitable society, ensuring that no one is left behind.

Address

13A Location Road, Oroazi
Port Harcourt
500272

Opening Hours

Monday	09:00 - 17:00
Tuesday	09:00 - 17:00
Wednesday	09:00 - 17:00
Thursday	09:00 - 17:00
Friday	09:00 - 17:00

Telephone

+2347031593783

Website

http://www.stakeholderdemocracy.org/

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