Call for Expression of Interest: Consultant for Development of Human Rights Training Manual

Background:

Social Development Integrated Centre (Social Action) is a leading Nigerian civil society organisation established in 2007. It has over the years championed human rights campaigns through its Democracy and Governance program. Our initiatives have contributed to fostering an equitable, sustainable, and inclusive society, and empowering communities to advocate for social change and human rights defense and protection. We promote youth participation and access to justice through, Civil Rights Councils (CRCs), Provide Popular Education and supporting efforts to enhance access to justice for marginalized groups. By collaborating with our partners, we work to raise popular consciousness and participation through collective learning, mobilisation and solidarity for communities and activists working for environmental justice, democracy and social change in Nigeria

Context

The human rights situation in Nigeria is marked by pervasive abuses and systemic violations that impact various demographics, particularly marginalized groups such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities. Despite constitutional provisions safeguarding fundamental rights, these rights are often undermined by state actions and societal norms. Reports of extrajudicial killings, unlawful detentions, torture, and police brutality are rampant, particularly against young people who have taken a stand against corruption, violence, and systemic injustice. Additionally, the ongoing conflicts in regions like the Niger Delta and the northeast, exacerbated by insurgencies and communal violence, further compound the precarious human rights landscape, leading to displacement, loss of livelihoods, and a pervasive culture of fear.

Youth voices in Nigeria are often marginalized, stifled by both governmental repression and societal expectations. The suppression of peaceful protests, as witnessed during the #EndSARS movement against police brutality, highlights the fragile state of civic engagement and the risks faced by young advocates. Government crackdowns on dissenting voices, including harassment, intimidation, and violence against activists, serve to create an environment where young people feel increasingly alienated and powerless. Consequently, their potential to influence positive change is severely curtailed, as they grapple with both societal alienation and a hostile political climate that disregards their aspirations for justice and equality.

In a rapidly evolving democratic landscape, the need for a comprehensive understanding of human rights has become a critical priority, particularly for young people in Nigeria. The proposed training manual aims to empower youth and community advocates with the knowledge, tools, and strategies necessary to understand, defend, and promote human rights within their contexts.

Objective of the consultancy:

To develop a human rights training manual suitable for on-hand and practical training of young Nigeria to take up advocacy for the protection of the rights of the various segments of the civil society. The manual will serve as advocacy tool for human rights protect and compliance with the rule of law.

Scope of Work: The consultant will develop a detailed training manual divided into two key modules that encompass various aspects of human rights in Nigeria, with a focus on the unique challenges faced by young people and marginalized groups.

The training manual will include:

• MODULE 1:

o Preamble: Historical context of human rights in Nigeria, particularly in the Niger Delta, northeast, and north central regions.

o Chapter 1: Definition and Concept of Human Rights; fundamentals of Human Rights and the Rule of Law.

o Chapter 2: Evolution and Implementation of International Human Rights Frameworks.

o Chapter 3: Fundamental Human Rights in Nigeria and the Nigeria Constitution.

o Chapter 4: Gender, Feminism & Civic Rights.

o Chapter 5: Context of Abuses: Being female, being young and being disabled.

• MODULE 2: Bringing it Together & Taking Action

o Chapter 6: Tactics and Strategies for Human Rights Enforcement in Nigeria.

o Chapter 7: Mobilizing for Human Rights Defense, with a focus on youth strategies.

o Chapter 8: Engaging with the Police.

o Chapter 9: Taking Action for Rights with an emphasis on capacity-building for young advocates.

Qualifications:

The ideal consultant will possess the following qualifications:

1. The consultant must possess a minimum of Master’s Degree in law, Political Science and or Public Policy

2. A proven track record in human rights advocacy, education, or related fields.

3. Strong understanding of the Nigerian socio-political context regarding human rights issues.

4. Experience in curriculum development or training material preparation, specifically focusing on youth and marginalized communities.

5. Excellent writing, editing, and interpersonal skills.

6. Familiarity with international human rights frameworks and local legislation in Nigeria.

Expression of Interest Submission:

Interested consultants are invited to submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) that includes:

• A brief profile highlighting relevant experience and qualifications.

• A methodology outlining how you would approach the development of the training manual.

• A proposed timeline for the completion of the project.

• Budgetary considerations related to the scope of work.

Deadline for Submission: 30th June 2025

Submission Instructions: Please send your EOI to admin@saction.org, copying botti@saction.org with the subject line “EOI for Human Rights Training Manual Development.”

We welcome diverse perspectives and encourage applications from individuals and organizations committed to advancing human rights in Nigeria. Together, let us empower the next generation in their pursuit of justice and equality.

For further inquiries, please contact Isaac Botti 07037273343.

Thank you for your interest in contributing to this vital initiative.