The French Embassy in Nigeria has donated €1 million (approximately ₦1.8 billion) to support 19 Civil Society Organisations (CSOs) across the country in advancing grassroots development initiatives.
Now in its sixth year, the initiative known as the French Embassy Fund for Civil Society Organisations (FEF-OSC), is part of the Embassy’s longstanding collaboration with Nigerian CSOs.
Speaking at the event on Friday in Abuja, the Embassy’s Political Counsellor, Mr Bertrand de Seissan, said the programme is designed to offer targeted financial and technical assistance to empower local organisations in addressing critical issues such as gender inequality, economic vulnerability, and community resilience.
This year’s cycle saw a significant expansion, with 19 CSOs selected through a competitive process to implement high-impact projects across diverse communities. Each organisation will receive a one-year grant focused on delivering immediate results while strengthening long-term institutional capacity.
The fund’s three priority areas are: combating gender-based violence and promoting women’s socio-economic integration; fostering sustainable livelihoods for youth and vulnerable groups; and strengthening community resilience through advocacy and partnerships.
The most meaningful change happens when communities lead. Through the FEF-OSC project, the French Embassy (@FranceInNigeria ) and partners are equipping Nigerian CSOs with technical, managerial, and strategic skills to boost their effectiveness and long-term sustainability. pic.twitter.com/3UwfqkYCnu
— Bridge Connect (@BridgeConnectNG) May 30, 2025
In partnership with the Cognito Project–POD Consulting Consortium, the programme also features a strong capacity-building component. Through tailored workshops, coaching sessions, and peer exchange platforms, participating CSOs will acquire critical skills in strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation, financial accountability, and impact communication.
“At its heart, this initiative is about people the women, men, and youth whose lives are being transformed by the bold and compassionate work of local organisations,” de Seissan stated.
Also speaking, Mrs Ketty Regis, Cooperation Attaché at the French Embassy, emphasised the importance of sustainability. She noted that the Embassy is working closely with Nigeria’s Ministry of Women Affairs to strengthen CSO capacity through training and institutional support.
She highlighted that France’s commitment to feminist diplomacy has played a key role in promoting equal access to rights and opportunities in both France and Nigeria, helping to address structural barriers to equality.
“These initiatives reflect a process of mutual learning between French and Nigerian change-makers whether at the institutional level through political commitment, or through grassroots solutions to collective challenges.
“Best practices and entrepreneurial spirit can be found everywhere. This is why we are committed to nurturing the friendship between France and Nigeria, by building alliances for mutual benefit and shared progress,” she said.
