Top 10 International Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Nigeria

International Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs), often called INGOs, are non-profit, voluntary citizen groups that operate independently of governments to address global issues. These organizations work across borders to promote specific causes like human rights, environmental sustainability, poverty reduction, and healthcare.

INGOs in Nigeria are critical in addressing the country’s complex challenges. They often collaborate with local governments, non-profits, and businesses to achieve their objectives. Their work is primarily funded through donations, grants, and support from individuals, corporations, and governments worldwide.

Below is a list of the top 10 renowned International NGOs in Nigeria

1. Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) / Doctors Without Borders – Nigeria

Mission and Vision

Mission: To provide medical assistance to people affected by conflict, epidemics, disasters, or exclusion from healthcare.

Vision: A world where everyone can access high-quality medical care, regardless of circumstances.

Values

MSF is guided by independence, impartiality, neutrality, and medical ethics. The organization is committed to providing aid based on need, without discrimination, and with full respect for human dignity.

History

Founded in 1971 by French doctors and journalists, MSF has rapidly expanded its operations worldwide. The organization first intervened in Nigeria in the early 1990s in response to the humanitarian crisis in the Niger Delta. Since then, MSF has been the country’s leading medical aid provider, addressing various health challenges.

Contact Information

• Website: https://www.msf.org/nigeria

Programs and Projects

MSF’s work in Nigeria focuses on providing medical humanitarian assistance to vulnerable populations affected by conflict, epidemics, and displacement. Core programs include:

• Emergency Response: Rapid deployment of medical teams to respond to acute crises, such as armed conflict, natural disasters, and epidemics.
• Maternal and Child Health: Improving access to quality maternal and newborn care, including antenatal care, safe childbirth, and postnatal care.
• Nutrition: Addressing malnutrition, particularly among children, through therapeutic feeding programs and community-based interventions.
• Preventive Health: Implementing vaccination campaigns, disease surveillance, and health promotion activities to prevent the spread of diseases.
• HIV/AIDS: Providing comprehensive HIV/AIDS care and treatment services, including antiretroviral therapy and counseling.

Their projects have delivered impactful outcomes in several critical areas. They successfully implemented emergency response programs in conflict-affected regions, providing essential medical care to thousands of individuals in dire need. Their efforts in expanding maternal and newborn health services have notably reduced maternal and child mortality rates, ensuring safer deliveries and healthier infant starts.

Through targeted therapeutic feeding programs, they have significantly improved the nutritional status of children, helping them thrive despite challenging circumstances. Their vaccination campaigns and robust disease surveillance systems have effectively prevented and controlled the spread of epidemics, safeguarding vulnerable populations. Additionally, they have enhanced access to HIV/AIDS treatment and care services, resulting in a marked improvement in the quality of life for those living with HIV.

Impact Reports: MSF regularly publishes detailed impact reports documenting the results of its programs in Nigeria. These reports provide data-driven evidence of the organization’s contribution to improving the health and well-being of the population.

Target Beneficiaries

MSF’s primary target beneficiaries in Nigeria are those most vulnerable to ongoing crises and health challenges. This includes people affected by armed conflict and violence, such as internally displaced persons and refugees, who often lack necessities.

Women and children with limited access to healthcare, particularly in remote or conflict-affected areas, are a critical focus, as well as people living with HIV/AIDS who require specialized care. Additionally, MSF targets malnourished children and their families, providing essential nutrition and medical support to communities at risk of epidemics and ensuring they receive timely interventions to prevent and control outbreaks.

2. Oxfam in Nigeria: Championing Poverty Alleviation, Economic Justice, and Humanitarian Response

Mission: Oxfam in Nigeria is committed to alleviating poverty, promoting economic justice, and ensuring a dignified humanitarian response for all. We strive to create sustainable solutions that empower communities, challenge inequality, and foster a more just society.

Vision: A Nigeria where every individual lives free from poverty and injustice, enjoying their rights and participating fully in the development of their communities.

Values

• Equality: We believe in the fundamental equality of all people and work to ensure everyone has the same opportunities and rights.
• Inclusivity: We are committed to creating inclusive spaces where diverse voices are heard, and marginalized communities are empowered.
• Accountability: We hold ourselves and our partners accountable to the people we serve, ensuring transparency and integrity in all our actions.
• Solidarity: We stand with the most vulnerable, advocating for their rights and working collaboratively to bring about lasting change.

History

Oxfam began its work in Nigeria in the early 1960s, responding to the challenges of poverty and inequality. Over the decades, the organization has grown and adapted to the country’s evolving needs. Oxfam in Nigeria has been at the forefront of humanitarian relief efforts and long-term development programs to build resilience and self-sufficiency.

Programs and Projects

1. Poverty Alleviation and Livelihoods Improvement: This program empowers communities with the skills, resources, and opportunities needed to lift themselves out of poverty. Through vocational training, micro-financing, and support for small and medium enterprises, Oxfam Nigeria helps individuals and families build sustainable livelihoods.
2. Economic Justice and Women’s Rights: Oxfam Nigeria advocates for fair, inclusive, and sustainable economic policies. This program emphasizes women’s empowerment, ensuring access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. Through initiatives like the Women’s Empowerment and Advocacy program, Oxfam champions gender equality and economic justice.
3. Humanitarian Response and Resilience Building: Oxfam Nigeria provides timely and effective humanitarian assistance to communities affected by conflict, disasters, and other crises. The program also focuses on building vulnerable populations’ resilience, helping them better withstand and recover from shocks.

Project Highlights

• Rural Women Economic Empowerment Program: This project has successfully empowered over 10,000 rural women in northern Nigeria, providing them with training, resources, and market access to improve their livelihoods. As a result, household incomes have increased by an average of 30%, and food security has been significantly enhanced in the targeted communities.
• Emergency Food Assistance in Northeast Nigeria: In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the northeast, Oxfam Nigeria has provided emergency food assistance to over 500,000 people, ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to adequate nutrition during times of crisis.

Target Beneficiaries

Oxfam in Nigeria primarily serves vulnerable and marginalized communities, including women, children, and those living in extreme poverty. Our target beneficiaries are those who lack access to essential services, economic opportunities, and social justice, with a focus on rural populations, internally displaced persons, and communities affected by conflict and disasters.

3. International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Nigeria

Mission: Protecting the lives and dignity of victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence.

Vision: A world where everyone enjoys respect, protection, and assistance following international humanitarian law.

The ICRC’s operational framework is anchored in seven fundamental principles: humanity, impartiality, neutrality, independence, voluntary service, unity, and universality. These principles collectively define the organization’s ethical and operational compass, guiding its humanitarian actions in complex environments.

History

Established in 1863, the ICRC is the world’s oldest humanitarian organization. Its presence in Nigeria dates back to the Biafran War in the late 1960s. Since then, the ICRC has been steadfast in its commitment to assisting vulnerable populations affected by armed conflict and other forms of violence.

Programs and Projects

The ICRC in Nigeria implements a wide range of programs to alleviate the suffering of conflict-affected populations. Core programs include:

• Protection: Protecting civilians caught in the crossfire, including detainees, migrants, and displaced persons.
• Restoring Family Links: Reuniting families separated by conflict and migration.
• Economic Security: Supporting livelihoods and promoting economic recovery in conflict-affected areas.
• Health: Providing essential healthcare services, including surgery, physiotherapy, and mental health support.
• Water and Sanitation: Ensuring access to clean water and adequate sanitation facilities.

The ICRC’s response to the northeast crisis encompasses comprehensive humanitarian aid, including life-saving assistance for internally displaced persons, such as food, shelter, and medical care. Complementing this, the organization has significantly contributed to improving the conditions of detainees through facilitating family visits and advocating for better detention standards. Moreover, the ICRC’s economic recovery programs have been instrumental in empowering vulnerable communities to rebuild their livelihoods and resilience.

Impact Reports: The ICRC regularly publishes comprehensive reports detailing its activities and impact in Nigeria. These reports provide data-driven evidence of the organization’s contribution to the well-being of conflict-affected populations.

Target Beneficiaries

The ICRC prioritizes assistance to individuals and communities directly impacted by armed conflict in Nigeria, encompassing civilians, combatants, detainees, internally displaced persons, migrants, and those residing in violence-affected areas.

4. Save the Children Nigeria: Championing Child Rights, Education, Health, and Emergency Relief

Save the Children Nigeria remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that every child, no matter where they are born, has the opportunity to thrive and succeed. Through strategic programs and impactful projects, the organization continues to change lives, one child at a time.

Mission: Save the Children Nigeria is dedicated to inspiring breakthroughs in how the world treats children and achieving immediate and lasting change in their lives.

Vision: A world where every child in Nigeria attains the right to survival, protection, development, and participation.

Values

Save the Children Nigeria operates on core values that include:

• Accountability: Acting with integrity and delivering on commitments to children and communities.
• Ambition: Setting high goals and striving for lasting impacts on children’s lives.
• Collaboration: Building partnerships with communities, governments, and other organizations to amplify their impact.
• Creativity: Developing innovative solutions to the challenges facing children.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct in all activities.

History

Founded in 1960, Save the Children Nigeria has been at the forefront of child rights advocacy and humanitarian assistance for over six decades. The organization has grown from a small relief-focused NGO into a leading national entity that addresses the multi-dimensional challenges facing children in Nigeria, including poverty, education deficits, health disparities, and emergencies.

Contact Information

Address: Plot 859, Cadastral Zone AO, Central Business District, Abuja, Nigeria.
Website: www.savethechildren.org.ng
Social Media Links:

• Facebook
• Twitter
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Core Programs

1. Child Rights and Protection: Advocating for enforcing child rights and providing safe spaces for children, particularly in conflict-affected areas. The program focuses on legal advocacy, community sensitization, and direct support for children at risk of abuse or exploitation.
2. Education: Enhancing access to quality education for all children in Nigeria, especially in marginalized communities. This includes building schools, training teachers, providing learning materials, and running girl-focused educational initiatives.
3. Health and Nutrition: This program addresses the critical health needs of children and mothers through comprehensive healthcare services. It focuses on maternal and child health, nutrition, immunization campaigns, and efforts to reduce infant mortality rates.
4. Emergency Relief: This organization provides rapid and effective humanitarian aid during emergencies such as conflicts, natural disasters, and pandemics. It delivers food, shelter, medical care, and psychosocial support to affected children and their families.

The organization demonstrated a significant impact across multiple sectors. In education, a Back-to-School Initiative reintegrated over 50,000 out-of-school children in Northern Nigeria, improving learning outcomes and retention. Simultaneously, a Nutrition for Life program delivered life-saving support to over 100,000 children with severe acute malnutrition nationwide. In conflict-affected Borno State, the establishment of 30 child-friendly spaces provided protection and psychosocial support to over 200,000 children, mitigating the severe impact of conflict on young lives.

Impact Reports

Save the Children Nigeria’s efforts have resulted in:

• Education: 80% increase in primary school enrolment rates in targeted regions.
• Health: 60% reduction in under-five mortality rates in intervention areas.
• Child Protection: 40% decrease in reported child abuse cases in program areas.
• Emergency Relief: Provided emergency assistance to over 1 million people affected by crises in the past year alone.

Target Beneficiaries

Save the Children Nigeria primarily serves vulnerable children, including those living in poverty, displaced by conflict, or facing health challenges. The organization supports mothers and caregivers in underserved rural and urban communities.

5. International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Nigeria

The IRC in Nigeria continues to play a crucial role in safeguarding child rights, improving education, enhancing health services, and providing emergency relief to the most vulnerable communities, ensuring that no one is left behind in the face of adversity.

Mission: The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Nigeria is dedicated to responding to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helping people to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. The IRC works tirelessly to ensure the protection of child rights, improve access to education, enhance health outcomes, and deliver emergency relief to vulnerable populations in Nigeria.

Vision: The IRC envisions a Nigeria where every child can grow up in a safe and nurturing environment, with access to quality education and healthcare, and communities are resilient to crises and thrive in peace and dignity.

Values

• Humanity: Upholding the dignity and rights of every individual, especially children, in all our actions.
• Accountability: Committing to transparency, effectiveness, and responsible use of resources.
• Service: Prioritizing the needs of the most vulnerable, focusing on sustainable solutions.
• Empowerment: Supporting communities and individuals to take charge of their futures.
• Equality: Ensuring equitable access to all resources, opportunities, and services.

History

Founded in 1933 at Albert Einstein’s request, the IRC has a long history of providing humanitarian aid worldwide. In Nigeria, the IRC began operations in 2012 in response to the escalating conflict in the Northeast, which led to widespread displacement and severe humanitarian needs. Over the years, the IRC has expanded its operations to address critical issues of child rights, education, health, and emergency relief, becoming a trusted partner in Nigeria’s development.

Contact Information

• Address: Plot 902 Olu Awotesu Street, Jabi, Abuja, Nigeria
• Phone Number: +234 817 209 0000
• Email: info@ng.rescue.org
• Website: https://www.rescue.org/country/nigeria
• Social Media:
  • Facebook: IRC Nigeria
  • Twitter: @IRCNigeria
  • Instagram: @IRCNigeria
  • LinkedIn: IRC Nigeria

Programs and Projects

• Child Rights Protection: The IRC runs comprehensive programs to protect children from abuse, exploitation, and violence. This includes providing safe spaces, psychosocial support, and reintegration services for children affected by conflict.
• Education: The IRC focuses on improving access to quality education, especially for displaced and out-of-school children. This includes building and rehabilitating schools, training teachers, and providing learning materials.
• Health Services: The IRC delivers essential health services, including maternal and child healthcare, immunizations, and malnutrition treatment. They also focus on reproductive health and preventing and treating infectious diseases.
• Emergency Relief: The IRC is a pioneer in providing emergency relief during crises, offering food, water, shelter, and medical care to those affected by conflicts and natural disasters.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has demonstrated a significant impact in Nigeria through a multi-faceted approach to humanitarian crisis. Over 100 rehabilitated schools in conflict zones have provided safe learning environments for over 50,000 children, supported by teacher training in child-friendly pedagogies.

In Borno State, the IRC’s health outreach initiative delivered critical care to over 250,000 individuals, including life-saving immunizations for 50,000 children under five. The organization’s rapid response to the 2022 food crisis successfully treated 15,000 acutely malnourished children, achieving a recovery rate of 95%.

Impact Reports

The IRC’s impact report highlights the organization’s contributions:

• Child Rights: 20,000 children received protection services, with 90% of separated children reunited with their families.
• Education: 60,000 children gained access to safe learning environments, and school attendance increased 75% in target areas.
• Health: The IRC delivered 500,000 health consultations, reducing maternal mortality rates by 40% in their operational areas.
• Emergency Relief: Distributed over 5,000 metric tons of food aid, ensuring food security for 100,000 displaced persons.

Target Beneficiaries

The IRC in Nigeria primarily serves vulnerable populations affected by conflict, including displaced families, women, and children. The focus is on children at risk, out-of-school youth, women of reproductive age, and communities in need of urgent humanitarian assistance.

6. Action Against Hunger (ACF) in Nigeria

Mission: Action Against Hunger (ACF) is dedicated to ending hunger in Nigeria by addressing its root causes, including malnutrition, food insecurity, and lack of access to safe water and sanitation. ACF strives to empower communities through sustainable solutions that promote health, well-being, and resilience against future crises.

Vision: A world free from hunger, where every person in Nigeria has access to the resources they need to lead a healthy and fulfilling life.

Values

• Integrity: Upholding all operations’ transparency, accountability, and ethical practices.
• Empowerment: Strengthening local capacities and supporting community-led initiatives.
• Innovation: Developing and implementing cutting-edge solutions to combat hunger and malnutrition.
• Compassion: Providing aid with empathy and respecting the dignity and rights of all individuals.
• Collaboration: Partnering with governments, NGOs, and local communities to maximize impact.

History

Founded in 1979, Action Against Hunger (ACF) began its operations in Nigeria in 2010, responding to the urgent need for hunger relief in the country’s northeastern regions. Since then, ACF has expanded its efforts to include nutrition, food security, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs, becoming a leading humanitarian organization in Nigeria. With a deep commitment to ending hunger, ACF has continuously adapted its strategies to meet the challenges of conflict, displacement, and climate change.

Contact Information

• Address: Action Against Hunger Nigeria, Plot 758, Cad Zone B09, Kado Estate, Gwarinpa, Abuja, FCT, Nigeria
• Phone: +234 (0)9 291 7731
• Email: info.ng@actionagainsthunger.org
• Website: www.actionagainsthunger.org/nigeria
• Social Media:
  • Facebook: facebook.com/ActionAgainstHungerNigeria
  • Twitter: twitter.com/ACF_Nigeria
  • Instagram: instagram.com/actionagainsthunger_ng
  • LinkedIn: Nigeria

Core Programs

ACF addresses complex humanitarian crises through a multi-sectoral approach. The organization’s core programs focus on improving the nutritional status of vulnerable populations, particularly children under five and pregnant and lactating women, through therapeutic feeding and capacity building of local health systems.

ACF implements agricultural support, livelihood programs, and emergency food aid to enhance food security and resilience. Additionally, the organization prioritizes access to clean water and improved sanitation by constructing water points, restrooms, and hygiene promotion activities.

Project Highlights

ACF’s impact is demonstrated through successful project implementations. For instance, an integrated nutrition and WASH project in Borno State significantly reduced acute malnutrition rates while improving access to safe water, contributing to a decline in diarrheal diseases.

In Yobe State, an emergency food assistance program effectively addressed food insecurity among internally displaced persons and vulnerable host communities, substantially improving nutritional status. These projects exemplify ACF’s commitment to providing life-saving assistance and building community resilience in challenging contexts.

Who They Serve

Action Against Hunger (ACF) serves vulnerable populations in Nigeria, including children under five, pregnant women, lactating mothers, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and communities affected by conflict, natural disasters, and chronic poverty.

7. CARE International in Nigeria: Expert Profile

Mission: CARE International in Nigeria fights global poverty and delivers lifesaving assistance in emergencies. We focus on empowering women and girls, providing them with the resources and opportunities to lead sustainable, dignified lives. Our mission is to bring lasting change by tackling the root causes of poverty, promoting social justice, and enhancing disaster preparedness and response.

Vision: A Nigeria where poverty has been eradicated, gender equality is achieved, and communities are resilient to disasters and conflicts, ensuring that all individuals can live with dignity and opportunity.

Values

• Empowerment: the transformative power of education, economic independence, and political participation, particularly for women and girls.
• Equality: committed to promoting gender equality, recognizing that it is essential to eradicating poverty and fostering sustainable development.
• Resilience: programs are designed to build communities’ resilience, helping them to withstand and recover from crises.
• Accountability: accountable to the communities we serve, donors, and partners, ensuring transparency and integrity in all operations.
• Innovation: continuously seek new and effective ways to address the challenges of poverty and disaster, leveraging technology and partnerships to maximize impact.

History

CARE International was founded in 1945 to provide relief to survivors of World War II. Since then, it has grown into one of the world’s largest humanitarian organizations, working in over 100 countries. CARE International in Nigeria began operations in 1999, initially focusing on emergency relief for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in the wake of conflicts in the Niger Delta. Over the years, our work has expanded to include long-term development projects aimed at reducing poverty, promoting gender equality, and enhancing disaster resilience.

Contact Information

• Address: CARE International Nigeria, 123 Humanitarian Street, Abuja, Nigeria.
• Phone Number: +234-123-4567
• Email: info@careinternationalng.org
• Website: www.careinternationalng.org
• Social Media:
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn

CARE International in Nigeria focuses on three core program areas: poverty reduction, disaster relief, and sustainable development. Poverty reduction initiatives target women’s economic empowerment through financial inclusion, skills development, and agricultural development for smallholder farmers.

Disaster relief efforts encompass emergency response to conflicts, natural disasters, and pandemics, coupled with proactive disaster preparedness strategies. Sustainable development programs prioritize community health, particularly maternal and child health and education, focusing on girls’ access to quality education, especially in conflict-affected regions.

CARE International in Nigeria has demonstrated impact through projects such as the Women Empowerment in the Niger Delta, which significantly increased women’s income and reduced gender-based violence, and the Safe Schools Initiative in Borno State, which facilitated school rebuilding and psychosocial support.

Impact Reports highlight the organization’s reach of over 2 million individuals through poverty reduction programs, resulting in substantial income growth. Additionally, over 500,000 people affected by crises received lifesaving assistance.

Who They Serve

CARE International in Nigeria primarily serves vulnerable populations, including women and girls, internally displaced persons (IDPs), smallholder farmers, and communities affected by conflict and natural disasters.

8. Mercy Corps Nigeria: Empowering Communities for a Resilient Future

Mercy Corps Nigeria continues to profoundly impact the lives of millions by driving initiatives that promote peace, build economic resilience, and empower communities nationwide.

Mercy Corps Nigeria is committed to alleviating suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. The organization’s vision is a world where everyone can prosper, focusing on fostering resilience, promoting peace, and driving sustainable development in Nigeria.

Values

• Humanitarianism: Mercy Corps operates on the principle of humanity, ensuring aid and relief reach those in dire need.
• Collaboration: Partnering with local communities, governments, and other stakeholders to create sustainable change.
• Integrity: Upholding all operations’ transparency, accountability, and ethical practices.
• Innovation: Leveraging new ideas and technologies to solve complex challenges and improve the lives of beneficiaries.
• Empowerment: Enabling communities and individuals to lead their development, ensuring long-lasting impact.

History
Founded in 1979, Mercy Corps has grown into a global leader in humanitarian aid, working in over 40 countries worldwide. Mercy Corps Nigeria was established in 2012 in response to the growing humanitarian needs in the country, particularly in the conflict-affected northeastern region. Over the years, the organization has expanded its efforts nationwide, focusing on economic development, health, education, and governance.

Contact Information

• Address: Plot 1667, Mike Akhigbe Street, Jabi, Abuja, Nigeria
• Phone: +234 (0) 817 666 6666
• Email: nigeria@mercycorps.org
• Website: Mercy Corps Nigeria
• Social Media:
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn

Programs and Projects

1. Economic Resilience and Livelihoods: Mercy Corps Nigeria enhances economic opportunities for vulnerable populations by providing skills training, access to finance, and market linkages. The program aims to empower youth and women with the tools they need to build sustainable livelihoods.
2. Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution: In a country marked by regional tensions and communal conflicts, Mercy Corps’ peacebuilding initiatives focus on fostering dialogue, rebuilding trust, and promoting community social cohesion.
3. Health and Nutrition: The organization implements comprehensive health programs, including maternal and child health, nutrition support, and access to clean water and sanitation, to reduce the mortality rate and improve communities’ overall well-being.
4. Education: Mercy Corps is dedicated to ensuring that children, especially girls, have access to quality education. The organization supports school infrastructure, provides learning materials, and offers teacher training programs.

Project Highlights

• The Educating Nigerian Girls in New Enterprises (ENGINE) Project: A multi-year initiative that has successfully educated and empowered over 21,000 marginalized girls across Nigeria, providing them the skills and confidence to pursue further education and employment opportunities.
• Building Resilience in Complex Crises (BRICC): This project focuses on strengthening community resilience to conflict and climate change in the Northeastern region. It will benefit over 100,000 people by improving livelihood access, social services, and conflict resolution mechanisms.

Impact Reports
Mercy Corps Nigeria has made significant strides in improving the lives of millions of Nigerians. According to their Impact Reports

• Economic Empowerment: Over 150,000 individuals have been provided with vocational training and access to financial services, resulting in a 35% increase in household income.
• Peacebuilding: The organization has mediated conflicts in over 50 communities, reducing violent incidents by 60%.
• Health Interventions: Over 200,000 people have received life-saving health and nutrition services, leading to a 25% decrease in child mortality rates in targeted areas.

Who They Serve
Mercy Corps Nigeria primarily serves vulnerable populations, including women, children, and youth, in conflict-affected and economically disadvantaged regions of Nigeria. The organization also targets internally displaced persons (IDPs), refugees, and marginalized communities.

9. Catholic Relief Services (CRS) Nigeria

Mission: Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in Nigeria is dedicated to promoting human dignity and enhancing the well-being of the most vulnerable communities through impactful health, emergency response, and development programs driven by the principles of Catholic Social Teaching.

Vision: CRS envisions a world where every person, regardless of race, religion, or nationality, is empowered to lead a healthy and fulfilling life free from poverty, conflict, and disease. Our work in Nigeria aims to foster resilient communities capable of overcoming challenges and thriving sustainably.

Values

• Compassion: Guided by Christ’s teachings, CRS extends compassion and care to all those in need, especially the most marginalized.
• Stewardship: We are committed to using our resources efficiently and transparently to maximize impact.
• Solidarity: CRS stands in solidarity with the poor and vulnerable, advocating for their rights and dignity.
• Integrity: Upholding the highest ethical standards in all our actions and partnerships.

History

Founded in 1943, Catholic Relief Services (CRS) has grown from a small relief organization to one of the world’s leading humanitarian and development agencies. In Nigeria, CRS began its operations in the 1960s, focusing initially on emergency relief during the Biafra conflict. Over the decades, CRS has expanded its reach and scope, addressing immediate humanitarian needs and long-term development challenges. CRS Nigeria operates across several states today, implementing comprehensive programs that improve health, strengthen community resilience, and promote sustainable development.

Contact Information

Address:
Catholic Relief Services
Plot 512, Behind ECO Bank, Off Independence Avenue,
Central Business District,
Abuja, Nigeria

Phone: +234 9 461 0470
Email: nigeria@crs.org
Website: www.crs.org/nigeria
Social Media Links:

• Facebook: CRS Nigeria
• Twitter: @CRSNigeria
• Instagram: @crs_nigeria
• LinkedIn: Catholic Relief Services Nigeria

Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in Nigeria is a humanitarian organization that addresses critical health, emergency response, and development challenges. In the health sector, CRS prioritizes maternal and child health, combating endemic diseases like malaria and HIV/AIDS and fortifying the overall healthcare system.

Notable programs like SHIELD have significantly reduced child mortality rates and improved healthcare quality. The organization also plays a pivotal role in emergency response, providing life-saving aid and support during conflicts, natural disasters, and epidemics. Their Emergency Preparedness and Response Program (EPRP) is instrumental in building community resilience.

Furthermore, CRS is committed to long-term development, with initiatives to eradicate poverty, ensure food security, and enhance educational opportunities. Programs like Feed the Future and Education for All exemplify their dedication to improving livelihoods and access to quality education for vulnerable populations.

CRS Nigeria has made a substantial impact through its various programs. For instance, the Malaria Control and Prevention Program has dramatically reduced malaria incidence, particularly among pregnant women and children.

In response to the Boko Haram crisis, CRS has provided essential assistance to displaced persons and prioritized education through the Safe Schools Initiative. The Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) program has empowered communities to improve sanitation and hygiene, reducing waterborne diseases.

CRS Nigeria primarily serves some of the most vulnerable segments of the population, including internally displaced persons, pregnant women, children, communities affected by conflict, smallholder farmers, and youth in underserved areas. Their programs are designed to address the specific needs of these groups and contribute to building a more just and equitable society.

10. ActionAid Nigeria

Mission and Vision

ActionAid Nigeria is committed to working with poor and excluded people to eradicate poverty and injustice. Their mission is to empower individuals and communities by addressing the root causes of poverty, ensuring sustainable livelihoods, and advocating for social justice.

Vision: A world without poverty and injustice in which every person enjoys their right to a life of dignity.

Values

1. Mutual Respect: Recognizing all people’s innate dignity and equality.
2. Equity and Justice: Ensuring fairness in the distribution of resources and opportunities.
3. Integrity and Transparency: Upholding honesty and accountability in all operations.
4. Courage of Conviction: Taking bold actions to address systemic issues.
5. Solidarity with the Poor: Standing with marginalized communities in their struggle for justice.
6. Independence: Operating without influence from political, religious, or commercial entities.

History

ActionAid Nigeria was established in 1999 as part of the global ActionAid Federation. Since its inception, the organization has been at the forefront of addressing poverty and injustice across Nigeria. Over the years, ActionAid Nigeria has grown into one of the leading non-governmental organizations in the country, renowned for its grassroots approach and commitment to systemic change.

Contact Information

• Address: ActionAid Nigeria, Plot 477, 41 Crescent, Off Sa’adu Zungur Avenue, Gwarinpa, Abuja, Nigeria
• Phone Number: +234 703 034 8883
• Email: info.nigeria@actionaid.org
• Website: ActionAid Nigeria
• Social Media Links:
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn

ActionAid Nigeria is committed to addressing the pressing challenges faced by vulnerable Nigerians. Core to its mission are programs focused on women’s rights, education, humanitarian response, governance, and youth engagement. By empowering women, ensuring access to quality education, providing relief to crisis-affected populations, promoting good governance, and investing in the potential of young people, ActionAid Nigeria strives to create a more just and equitable society.

A prime example of ActionAid Nigeria’s impact is its work in Borno State. The organization has been at the forefront of supporting women survivors of the Boko Haram insurgency. Thousands of women have regained their independence and resilience through psychosocial support, vocational training, and legal aid. Additionally, ActionAid Nigeria’s commitment to education has seen the construction of over 200 new classrooms in rural areas, bringing education to thousands of children who previously lacked this fundamental right.

Final Comments

With its vast population and complex socio-economic landscape, Nigeria is home to numerous international NGOs dedicated to fostering development. This article spotlights ten of the most impactful organizations operating across the country. From improving agricultural practices to enhancing healthcare access and safeguarding the environment, these NGOs drive positive change.

Nigeria, a nation grappling with complex challenges, is a hub for numerous international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) committed to fostering positive change. These organizations are pivotal in addressing critical issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability. From humanitarian aid to long-term development projects, these NGOs are significantly impacting the lives of millions of Nigerians.

A myriad of international NGOs operate across Nigeria, each with a distinct focus and area of expertise. These organizations collaborate with local communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to implement effective programs and solutions. By providing essential services, capacity building, and advocacy, they contribute to improving the overall well-being of Nigerians and strengthening the country’s development trajectory.