Spaces for Change (S4C), a leading advocacy group in Nigeria, has commemorated 13 years of impactful work with a special “Day of Gratitude”, bringing together key stakeholders, including family members, longtime friends, media partners, funders, board members, and former staff.
The event was a moment of reflection and appreciation for the contributions of various actors who have supported the organization since its inception. Originally starting as an online discussion group among young peers on Facebook, S4C has grown into a major advocacy force with offices in Lagos, Abuja, Ghana, and plans to expand to Banjul in 2025.
The organization’s transformation was catalyzed by its first online conference on the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), which gained significant attention from civil society, funders, and industry stakeholders. This success led to the establishment of a structured and registered organization with a physical presence.
In its 13th year, S4C has intensified its advocacy efforts across multiple sectors, focusing on digital rights, civic freedoms, energy transition, housing and community rights, gender inclusion, and defending civic space across West Africa. Through research, community empowerment, policy engagement, legal support, and technical assistance, the organization continues to drive systemic change, strengthen democratic accountability, and champion human rights protection.
S4C has also played a pivotal role in embedding human rights principles into national counter-terrorism policies, preventing the misuse of security laws to suppress civil society, and working against the exploitation of nonprofits for terrorism financing. Over the years, the organization has provided high-level technical assistance to security and law enforcement agencies combating money laundering and terrorism financing. It has also partnered with key federal agencies, including the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), National Oil Spill Detection and Response Agency (NOSDRA), and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), among others.
Additionally, S4C has created innovative platforms for law enforcement, banks, and regulators to address financial access challenges related to anti-money laundering measures. It has strengthened financial integrity and regulatory compliance in the non-profit sector, directly benefiting over 1,000 organizations across West Africa. The organization has also deepened local knowledge on the intersection of technology and security, addressing ethical concerns related to crime control. It has worked to mitigate cyber threats, mass surveillance, and champion data protection and personal privacy.
Beyond its work in security and digital rights, S4C has empowered communities to participate in natural resource governance and equitable climate policy development. By amplifying the voices of marginalized groups, the organization has ensured that policies and reforms are more inclusive and reflective of the needs of all stakeholders.
The Day of Gratitude concluded with heartfelt appreciation for the unwavering support of partners, team members, and their families. S4C leaders acknowledged the personal sacrifices made by staff and their loved ones, emphasizing the organization’s collective resilience and dedication to advancing justice and democracy. With its continued expansion and advocacy efforts, Spaces for Change reaffirms its commitment to driving systemic reforms and empowering marginalized communities across West Africa.
