Nigeria Achieves Impressive 72-Point Score in EITI Assessment
Nigeria has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing the global assessment of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), securing a commendable score of 72 out of 100. The International Board of EITI, chaired by former New Zealand Prime Minister Helen Clark, revealed the results after conducting an extensive 11-month evaluation.
The assessment showcased Nigeria’s excellence in three pivotal areas: outcomes and impacts (92 points), implementing transparency-driven reforms (71.5 points), and stakeholders’ engagement (52.5 points). The board specifically commended NEITI for its effective implementation, recognizing “visible and tangible impacts on extractive industry governance.”
NEITI’s robust system for developing work plans, monitoring and evaluation, dissemination, and outreach significantly contributed to the outstanding score in outcomes and impacts. The board also applauded NEITI’s leadership in driving reforms and governance within the oil, gas, and mining sectors. The reports were particularly praised for data integrity and access, scoring 90 points, indicating globally-acknowledged credibility and comprehensiveness.
While expressing satisfaction with the high scores, NEITI’s Executive Secretary, Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, acknowledged the need for improvement in highlighted areas. He emphasized the adverse impact of the absence of the National Stakeholders Working Group (NSWG) on Nigeria’s overall performance, calling for the urgent reconstitution of the body due to its critical oversight role.
Looking towards the future, the global EITI has scheduled the next assessment for January 1, 2026, expecting strengthened corrective actions. Orji reaffirmed NEITI’s commitment to continuous improvement, closer collaboration with stakeholders, and addressing emerging issues in the extractive sector.
NEITI extended its gratitude to the Federal Government, civil society, oil, gas, and mining companies, as well as development partners for their support during the validation process, highlighting the collective effort towards transparency, accountability, and economic growth.
Stay informed with the Guardian’s leading coverage of Nigerian and world news, business, technology, and sports by subscribing to receive the latest news straight to your inbox every day of the week.
