In the recent months, the concern on the activities of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Kano State has increased particularly in the face of a case of one organization that was discovered to be promoting the campaign on LGBT.
Consequently, the need to profile the NGOs, hence the need to ensure their alignment with the cultural, religious and traditional values of Kano People as a society which is predominantly Muslims
Given the importance of preserving these fundamental aspects of Kano community, profiling NGOs is not just a necessity but a responsibility of the Kano State Government.
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This approach aligns with global best practices, international regulations, and national security frameworks that advocate for transparency and accountability in civil society operations.
Profiling NGOs involves collecting and maintaining records on their activities, sources of funding, leadership, and compliance with national and State laws.
This process is crucial for the following reasons:
1. Preservation of Cultural and Religious Values: Kano State, like many other societies, has a deep-rooted religious and traditional values. Some NGOs operate in some ways that may inadvertently or deliberately counter these values. Profiling, ensures that NGOs operate within the ethical and moral frameworks accepted by the community.
2. Accountability and Transparency: Profiling helps expose NGOs that engage in activities contrary to their declared missions, preventing misrepresentation and potential manipulation of public trust.
3. National Security Considerations: Many countries, including Nigeria, have recognized the potential risks posed by NGOs that receive foreign funding without clear oversight. Profiling helps in ensuring that these organizations do not pose security threats
Several international laws and best practices support the regulation and profiling of NGOs:
1. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) Recommendations: The FATF, an intergovernmental body combating money laundering and terrorism financing, emphasizes the need for transparency in NGOs operations. Recommendation No 8 states that countries should ensure NGOs are not misused for terrorist financing or illicit activities.
2. The United Nations Security Council Resolutions 1373 (2001) and 2462 (2019): These resolutions emphasize the need for governments to prevent the misuse of civil society organizations for extremist or destabilizing activities.
3. The USA PATRIOT Act (2001): This act mandates increased oversight of NGOs operating within and outside the U.S. to prevent funding of illicit activities under the guise of charitable work.
4. The UK Charities Act (2011): The UK government ensures strict compliance of NGOs with registration and transparency regulations, preventing those that work against national interests from receiving funds.
5. The Nigerian Companies and Allied Matters Act (CAMA) 2020: This act gives the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) the power to regulate and suspend NGO operations if found engaging in unlawful activities.
Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, nominated as a commissioner by the Kano State Governor, is a respected figure with a track record of integrity and commitment to public service. His nomination signifies a strategic move to ensure effective engagement of LAWFULLY registered organizations that operate within the ambit of the law.
The elements questioning his appointment are likely wary of exposure, as increased profiling will reveal organizations operating with some hidden agendas that do not align with the cultural and traditional values of Kano people Additionally, the few dubious civil society organizations opposing him are envious of his achievements, of impactful leadership, fearing the scrutiny that comes with proper oversight, means they are dubious and dishonest
Legitimate NGOs that genuinely seek to serve the public good should have no concerns regarding profiling.
Transparency benefits the entire sector by ensuring trust between the government, the people, and civil society organizations. Any resistance to such measures raises concerns about potential ulterior motives, including mismanagement of funds, ideological subversion, or activities detrimental to societal stability.
Profiling NGOs in Kano is a necessary and globally supported initiative to preserve the cultural, religious, and traditional heritage of the state. International regulations and best practices emphasize the need for transparency and accountability in the NGO sector. The appointment of credible individuals such as Comrade Waiya further strengthens the government’s resolve to ensure NGOs operate within ethical and legal boundaries. The resistance from certain civil society organizations only underscores the necessity of this exercise, as it will expose entities that may not have the best interests of Kano State at heart.
By implementing profiling policies aligned with international best practices, the Kano State government will foster a more responsible and accountable NGO sector that contributes positively to society.
Dr. Abraman Sunday,
National Coordinator,
CSOs Integrity Group
