By: Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja.

Dauda Garuba, Executive Director,The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD-West Africa) has said in his welcome address CDD launched a bold new Strategic Plan for 2026–2030 aimed at addressing mounting democratic, security, and development challenges across the region.

Established in 1997, the organisation has, over nearly three decades, positioned itself as a leading regional think-and-do tank, promoting democratic accountability, conflict prevention, and inclusive development. Working in collaboration with institutions such as the Economic Community of West African States and the African Union, CDD has played a key role in strengthening governance and regional stability.

However, the Centre warns that West Africa stands at a critical crossroads. While countries like Senegal and Ghana continue to demonstrate democratic resilience, others are grappling with rising authoritarianism, declining electoral trust, and governance challenges linked to corruption. A wave of military coups and constitutional manipulations in countries including Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger have further deepened concerns about democratic backsliding.
Security threats have also intensified.

The region faces growing instability driven by terrorism, resource conflicts, organized crime, and kidnappings—particularly in the Sahel. Studies, including one by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, highlight Africa as having recorded the highest number of conflict-related deaths globally in recent years.

On the development front, the situation remains dire. According to recent estimates, over 44 million people across West Africa and the Sahel are facing acute food insecurity, while millions more are displaced and children suffer from severe malnutrition—underscoring widening poverty and inequality.

CDD’s new Strategic Plan outlines a comprehensive framework focused on reversing democratic decline, preventing violent conflict, rebuilding peace, and promoting people-centred development.

The plan emphasizes strengthening institutions, increasing civic participation, and improving living standards, while reinforcing the link between democracy and sustainable development.

“We will not stand by as these challenges deepen,” the CDD Executive Director stated, calling for stronger collaboration with governments, civil society, businesses, and international partners to achieve measurable progress.

The unveiling also highlighted contributions from key figures, including the International Governing Council led by John Odah, and consultant Victor Adetula, alongside support from academic, governmental, and development stakeholders.
CDD expressed optimism that the new roadmap will serve as a catalyst for collective action and renewed commitment to democracy, peace, and inclusive growth across West Africa.