CHRICED Launches Civic Media Studio to Amplify Citizens’ Voices, Combat Misinformation

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

In a bold move to reclaim media space for civic engagement and public accountability, the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) on Sunday inaugurated its state-of-the-art Radio and Television Studio in Abuja, pledging to use the platform to combat misinformation, promote inclusion, and strengthen Nigeria’s ailing democracy.

The new studio, located at CHRICED’s head office—Professor Abubakar Momoh House on Malcolm X Street, Gwarimpa—is envisioned as a platform to disrupt dominant political narratives, expand citizens’ participation in governance, and amplify the voices of marginalized communities.

Speaking at the launch, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Dr. Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, said the studio was born out of necessity as Nigeria faces “existential threats” to democracy.

“We are not merely inaugurating a broadcasting facility; we are igniting a beacon of truth, a pillar of justice, and a formidable instrument for civic engagement,” Dr. Zikirullahi declared.

Founded in 2006, CHRICED has been at the forefront of civic and human rights advocacy. The new media initiative forms part of its IDEA strategy—Inform, Disseminate, Educate, and Advocate—a four-pronged approach to public enlightenment and democratic development.

“CHRICED Radio and Television will challenge false narratives, provide a voice for the voiceless, and ensure democracy is not just a concept, but a lived experience for Nigerians,” Dr. Zikirullahi added.

The launch comes amid growing concerns over the shrinking civic space in Nigeria. The CHRICED Director criticized what he described as the “media capture” by political elites and the increasing use of state institutions to silence dissent.

“Political leadership, marred by mediocrity, has weaponized the media to suppress rather than enlighten. But today, with the launch of this studio, we reclaim that space,” he said.

The commissioning ceremony was performed by Dr. Kole Shettima, Director of the MacArthur Foundation’s Africa Office, which funded the project. Shettima reiterated the Foundation’s support for Nigerian civil society organizations committed to democratic governance and human rights.

“Our partnership with CHRICED is rooted in a shared vision—to make democracy work for all citizens. The studio is a vital tool in that journey,” he stated.

The event also served as a moment of tribute, as CHRICED commemorated the 15th anniversary of the death of former President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, lauding his legacy of electoral reform and integrity. It also remembered its late founding chairman, Professor Abubakar Momoh, whose vision helped lay the foundation for the organization.

Despite years of advocacy work and policy engagement, CHRICED noted that civil society in Nigeria remains under threat. According to Zikirullahi, efforts to stifle voices and shrink democratic space persist, yet the organization remains undeterred.

“We refuse to be silenced. This studio is our answer to oppression. It is our commitment to truth, justice, and public accountability,” he said.

CHRICED called on journalists, academics, civil society, and citizens to rally around the new platform and use it as a tool for democratic deepening.

“Let us harness the power of media to champion transparency, demand accountability, and defend democratic values,” Zikirullahi urged.

The CHRICED Radio and Television Studio begins operations with a promise to spotlight underreported issues, host inclusive debates, and support investigative journalism that challenges power and uplifts the public interest.