News & Events

CSEA participated in the annual coordination meeting and retreat of the Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Control Division of the Federal Ministry of Health, alongside other key stakeholders, to discuss their 2025 work plan from March 11 to 14, 2025.

Representing CSEA, Halima Abdulrazaq, a researcher, delivered a presentation on the impact of tobacco use on NCDs. Drawing insights from the Tobacco Control Data Initiative (TCDI) dashboard, she demonstrated how the platform can equip policymakers and advocates with accessible, data-driven insights to support evidence-based decisions aimed at reducing the burden of tobacco-related NCDs.

In 2025, our goal is to continue providing tobacco control actors with updated data and information while strengthening engagement with stakeholders to assess their needs and address them effectively.

The Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Alliance, in collaboration with the Rwanda NCD Alliance, organized the 4th Global NCD Alliance Forum, themed "Leadership on NCDs Towards 2025 & Beyond." It was held in Kigali, Rwanda, from February 13 to 15, 2025. The forum brought together over 650 participants from across the NCD community to promote advocacy activities in advance of the 2025 UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs. The discussions focused on strengthening leadership, organizing sustainable financing, and increasing grassroots advocacy to address the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Fidelis Obaniyi, CSEA's Research Associate, participated actively in the sessions contributing to conversations about critical NCD-related challenges and solutions. Some of the challenges raised include: Priority interventions for reducing the burden of chronic lung disease and other tobacco-related health problems. The Role of Law and Data in Implementing NCD Best Buys, Civil Society-Led Advocacy for Prioritizing Domestic Resource Mobilization, and Youth Leading the Way on NCDs.

The forum also provided a platform for the participants to exchange knowledge, collaborative action, support efforts to improve effective NCD policies, resource allocation, public health initiatives and gain unique insights into evidence-based advocacy, health policy implementation, and community-driven initiatives to improve NCD outcomes. CSEA’s participation in the 4th Global NCD Alliance Forum reaffirms its dedication to advance NCD policy, promote sustainable health policies and improve public health outcomes in Africa.

The Nigerian Economic Society launched its 2025 economic outlook report on February 12, 2025. The event brought together stakeholders, including policymakers, economists, and industry leaders, to discuss strategies for long-term growth, sustainability, and revenue diversification for the Nigerian economy. 

Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena, CSEA's Executive Director, participated as a panelist during the discussion session titled "Navigating Reform Headwinds for Long-Term Growth and Sustainability in 2025 and Beyond." The discussions steered knowledge exchange on socioeconomic challenges, critical economic trends, the need for collaborative and structural reforms, evidence-based policymaking to drive long-term stability, and strategic policy interventions.

CSEA's Research Associate, Chisom Udora joined other stakeholders at a town hall meeting on february 7, 2025, convened by the El-Mavericky Centre for Educational Research and Development in Abuja, to discuss and promote the Nigeria Tax Bill. The meeting aimed to clarify misconceptions about the bill and  emphasise  how tax reform can  promote economic growth and development. The program also provided an  opportunity for informed discussion about taxation in Nigeria. The discussions centered on the importance of continued public involvement, proactive compliance measures, and tactical approaches to tax administration. Participants emphasized the need to  streamline  tax payment processes, increase stakeholder participation and  create a more efficient and transparent tax system.  They also stressed the importance of  fostering collaboration between government institutions, corporations, and citizens to build a long-term and successful tax framework.

On February 6, 2025, CSEA's Executive Director, Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena, attended Southern Voice's General Assembly. The virtual event provided a platform for knowledge sharing and discussions about the network's strategic implementation plan for the year. During the session, Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena provided valuable insights on major network priorities including-

Flexibility in Thematic Priorities: He underlined the significance of remaining adaptable in thematic priority areas in order to successfully meet rising global governance and institutional developments. This adaptability guarantees that the network remains current and responsive to pressing global concerns while also promoting a common Southern agenda.
Enhancing Network Dynamism and Collaboration: Dr. Chukwuka emphasized the importance of increasing involvement among network members. Encouraging dynamic exchanges and collaboration enables the network to articulate and disseminate its perspectives on key issues in a timely and coordinated manner.
Deepening Contextual Understanding: Having a greater understanding of the demographics, priorities, and intersections within Global South regions would allow Southern Voice to fine-tune its positions and maximize resource mobilization efforts. Strengthening this understanding will increase the network's influence and effectiveness in achieving its goals.