Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy, and Development

Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development (SCDDD) is a nongovernmental organization that aims to contribute to an integrated Africa that is prosperous, peaceful and driven by her own citizens, and represents a dynamic force in the international arena. The award supports work to strengthen regulatory institutions and frameworks against hate speech and election violence in Nigeria. The activities include a) review of existing legislation, policies and guidelines for free speech, media and journalism practice, and human rights, b) mobilizing support of thought leaders, practitioners, regulators and civil society for reforms and c) coordinating advocacy with the  executive and legislative arms of government and relevant oversight institutions and professional associations. The project aims to improve regulatory frameworks so that individuals and institutions involved in hate speech can be held to account.

The purpose of this grant is to establish a ‘Council of the Wise,’ comprised of credible and reputable Nigerians to function as a platform for early detection and deliberation of major issues around the planning, preparation, and conduct of the 2015 general elections in Nigeria to better arrive at quick and effective resolutions that will reduce the risk of violence. The recommended grant will support: (a) planning and coordination meetings; (b) workshops on credible and violence-free elections in Nigeria; (c) outreach and advocacy with high-level government officials and major stakeholders; and (d) media and publicity.