The African Centre for Human Advancement and Resource Support (CHARS-Africa) has called for improved governance rooted in justice, human dignity and accountability, as the country enters 2026 amid deepening socio-economic and security uncertainties.
In its New Year message, signed by its Executive Director, Amaka Biachi, CHARS-Africa acknowledged that Nigerians have been resilient and patient enough in the face of rising living costs, job insecurity and social uncertainty.
It urged governments at all levels to prioritise people-centred policies that will protect livelihoods and restore public trust.
The group expressed concern over emerging fiscal and economic reform directions, particularly proposed tax measures expected to take effect in 2026.
The organisation cautioned that poorly designed or inadequately consulted fiscal policies risk worsening hardship for already overburdened citizens and this will undermine confidence in governance.
“Taxation and economic reforms must be humane, transparent, and constitutionally grounded. Also, a nation cannot tax its way out of crisis by bleeding the majority vulnerable citizens. Equity and justice, not pressure, should be the currency of national renewal,” the group noted.
The human rights body called on the Federal Government, the National Assembly, and sub-national governments to ensure that all fiscal policy reforms are subjected to genuine and inclusive public consultation and should align with the living realities of ordinary Nigerians.
“As the New Year begins, CHARS-Africa reaffirms its commitment to defending human rights, amplifying citizens’ voices, promoting social justice, and holding public institutions accountable in the collective interest of the Nigerian people.
“We hope that 2026 will usher in compassionate leadership, responsive governance, and policies that will genuinely serve the people,” the message enthused.
