CLEEN Foundation launches project to strengthen justice reforms, women peace agenda in Nigeria
The CLEEN Foundation has launched a new project aimed at strengthening rights-based approaches to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act (ACJA) frameworks and advancing the women, peace and security (WPS) agenda in Nigeria.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja on Tuesday, Lateef Fagbemi, the attorney-general of the federation (AGF) and minister of justice, said the initiative was both “timely and strategic” as it seeks to consolidate justice reforms and deepen inclusion in peacebuilding processes.
Fagbemi, represented by David Kasive, assistant director of prosecution at the federal ministry of justice, said the project will focus on ensuring full implementation of the ACJA in 12 states, including Ekiti, Lagos, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Imo, Enugu, Benue, Plateau, Gombe, Adamawa, Kaduna, and Jigawa, towards enhancing accountability, protecting citizens’ rights, and reducing prolonged detention.
He added that it will also operationalise the WPS agenda in five states, Imo, Kaduna, Plateau, Benue, and Nasarawa, reflecting the government’s recognition of the vital role women play in peacebuilding and inclusive governance.
“This project represents an intersection between justice and peace, rights and security, and inclusion and development,” he said, while pledging the ministry’s continued support for initiatives that advance the rule of law and protect human dignity.
Svein Baera, the Norwegian ambassador in Nigeria, represented by Michelle Hori, the acting charge d’affaires, commended CLEEN Foundation for spearheading the project, stressing that Norway remained committed to promoting peace, justice, and inclusive societies.
“This launch marks not only the beginning of a project but also a continuation of our partnership with Nigerian civil society,” the Embassy stated, noting that the ACJA and WPS thematic areas align strongly with Norway’s global priorities.
Peter Maduoma, CLEEN Foundation’s acting executive director, described the project as a major step in advancing justice reforms and gender-responsive peace initiatives.
He highlighted CLEEN’s 27 years of experience in security sector reform, research, and policy advocacy, adding that the organisation would leverage its expertise and partnerships to deliver impactful results.
“With the support of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and collaboration with national and subnational stakeholders, this intervention will consolidate previous efforts while strategically addressing critical gaps in the implementation of ACJA and WPS frameworks,” Maduoma said.
The project, supported by the Norwegian government, is expected to foster stronger collaboration among justice institutions, civil society, women’s groups, and the media towards building a safer, more just, and inclusive Nigeria.
