2018年-查塔姆研究所_Report_of_the_All_Party_Parliamentary_Group_on_Nigeria_2009_36页_1mb

报告摘要

Summary of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Nigeria Annual Report 2009

Core Content

The All Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on Nigeria published its 2009 Annual Report, titled Nigeria: Testing Times and Second Chances, which outlines the country's ongoing challenges and the role of the international community in supporting its development and democratic progress. The report highlights the importance of Nigeria as a key player in Africa and the world, despite its current struggles with corruption, governance, and human rights issues.

Main Challenges and Issues

1. Government and the People

Disconnect between the people and government: The Nigerian government functions largely independently of the populace, with many states relying on oil revenues instead of direct taxation. This has led to a lack of accountability and public engagement.
Corruption and transparency: Corruption remains a significant problem, fueled by the lack of accountability and acceptance among elites. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), established in 2003, has recovered $5.6 billion but is currently seen as ineffective and manipulated by powerful interests.
Need for accountability: The report emphasizes that without real accountability, the Nigerian people cannot exert pressure on the government to deliver services. Public services like health and education are often neglected, leading to widespread dissatisfaction.

2. Human Rights and Inequality

Basic human rights are not being realized: Issues such as access to clean water, electricity, and adequate healthcare persist, which in turn affect other rights.
FGM (Female Genital Mutilation): This practice is widespread in Nigeria, affecting 60% of the female population. It is often performed without medical supervision or anaesthesia, leading to serious health complications.
Children's rights: Poor educational infrastructure is evident, with some classrooms accommodating up to 100 children.

3. Business and Development

Economic dependence on oil: Nigeria's economy is heavily reliant on oil, which has contributed to corruption and economic inequality.
Need for economic diversification: The report calls for greater investment in non-oil sectors, particularly agriculture, to reduce economic vulnerability and create jobs.
Successful local projects: Examples like the Kano Wudil Region Integrated Water Supply Programme show the potential of community-government-NGO collaboration.

4. The Niger Delta

Conflict and instability: The region continues to face challenges due to political manipulation, environmental degradation, and economic marginalization.
Need for coordinated action: The international community must work together to address these issues, with a focus on oil-related challenges and the need for a joint strategy.

Key Recommendations

Establish a lead-country or coordination mechanism for international support on key issues.
Implement electoral reforms: The federal government and Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) should act swiftly to reform the electoral system, including allowing the judiciary to select INEC leadership.
Strengthen the EFCC: The commission must be granted full independence and receive ongoing technical support to combat corruption effectively.
Support local government: The donor community should expand efforts to provide training and capacity building to local governments.
Pass the Freedom of Information Bill: This would enhance transparency and accountability in governance.
Promote cooperative development projects: Initiatives such as the Kano Wudil Region Integrated Water Supply Programme should be explored.
Translate human rights treaties: These should be made available in local languages through civil society and local authorities.
Protect journalists and media: Federal and state governments must ensure the rights of journalists and documentary makers are safeguarded.
Combat FGM: The international community, including the UK, should support efforts to end this harmful practice, particularly through awareness and legal measures.
Enhance education and research collaboration: International universities and organizations should engage with Nigerian institutions to improve higher education standards and build capacity.

International Role and Cooperation

Coordinated international action: The report stresses the need for the European Union and United States to speak with one voice in supporting Nigeria.
Support for the EFCC and local governance: The UK, EU, and US should continue to support anti-corruption and local government initiatives.
Engagement with diaspora communities: The Nigerian diaspora, estimated at 10 million, can be a valuable resource for institutional and economic development.

Conclusion

Nigeria, despite its challenges, holds significant potential for growth and democratic progress. The report calls for sustained international engagement, reform of key institutions, and a focus on transparency and accountability. It also emphasizes the importance of local leadership and the need for a coordinated international approach to address Nigeria's complex issues. The international community must not become discouraged or disengaged, as Nigeria's stability and progress have global implications.