Nigeria’s Success in EITI Global Assessment
Nigeria has achieved a commendable performance in the recent global evaluation of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI). The nation received high marks in data integrity, report comprehensiveness, outcomes and impacts, contribution to economic growth, and adherence to legal frameworks, resulting in an overall score of 72. This evaluation was carried out by the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI).
Notwithstanding this success, there are areas in which Nigeria can make strides, particularly in stakeholder engagement, where the country garnered a low score of 52.5. The absence of Nigeria’s National Stakeholders’ Working Group (NSWG), mandated by the EITI Standard to oversee the sector, was identified as a factor impacting Nigeria’s overall performance in the evaluation.
Dr. Orji Ogbonnaya Orji, the Executive Secretary of NEITI, expressed remorse over the stakeholder engagement score and called for the immediate reconstitution of the NSWG. Nonetheless, the EITI board commended NEITI for its tangible impacts in spearheading reforms and governance in the oil, gas, and mining sectors.
NEITI remains unwavering in its commitment to achieve tangible results that will drive ongoing reforms and secure more revenue for the government by plugging leakages and improving the lives of Nigerians. The organization also underscored the need for enhancements in the development of the solid minerals sector, expanding beneficial ownership disclosures, and addressing emerging issues in the extractive sector.
Looking ahead, NEITI has pledged to work closely and deepen engagements with the government, civil society, and extractive companies to address the areas highlighted in the report. The next global EITI Assessment of Nigeria is slated for 1st January 2026, by which time all remedial actions recommended in the current assessment should have been reinforced. This achievement is a testament to NEITI’s diligent work and devotion to transparency and accountability in Nigeria’s extractive industries.
