In 2024, the Centre for the Study of the Economies of Africa (CSEA), collaborated with On Think Tanks on the State of the Sector 2024 Report, which offers an in-depth analysis of the global think tank landscape. Drawing from the perspectives of nearly 300 organizations across 95 countries, the report provides valuable insights into the trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping think tanks worldwide.

The report examines five key dimensions influencing the sector:  i) The diverse think tank landscape across regions ; ii) Varied political contexts influencing operations ; iii) Major divides in funding models  iv) Research priorities focused on policy and governance  and v) Emerging challenges in capacity, tech adoption, and AI .

CSEA contributed to this year’s report, offering regional insights that add depth to the global analysis.  

Explore the full report: http://onthinktanks.org/SOS2024

CSEA hosted a two-day workshop on Data protection and Privacy, in partnership with NDPC Nigeria, Baze University and African University of Science and Technology on 23-24 July 2024 at the CSEA conference hall, Abuja. The workshop featured training on the fundamentals of data privacy and protection, cybersecurity and data governance in Africa. It also convened experts and stakeholders who discussed key issues like; digitalization, how AFCFTA can support data governance and strategies for leveraging data governance to boost development in Nigeria and Africa. 

On August 30, 2024, CSEA, represented by Dr. Adedeji Adeniran and Adaora Ofodum, participated in a stakeholder validation meeting for the Tobacco Control Data Initiative (TCDI 2.0). This meeting, held in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo, was in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MOH).
The purpose of the gathering was to review the TCDI initiatives and discuss the incorporation of new themes into the DRC dashboard. Patrice Milambo, Director of the national program to combat drug addiction and toxic substances from the MOH, delivered the opening remarks, while Patrick Shamba Bakengela PhD, DG Country Lead in DRC, provided an introduction outlining the objectives of TCDI 1.0 and 2.0.
Dr. Adeniran gave an overview of CSEA and its role in TCDI 2.0, while Adaora outlined CSEA's responsibilities and expectations as a sustainability partner for the initiative. By the end of the meeting, two new themes were selected for the dashboard: “Prevention and Awareness” and “Shisha and New Products”.

CSEA's research associate, Kashema Bahago, represented Executive Director Dr. Chukwuka Onyekwena at a one-day dialogue titled "Challenging Private Creditors in People’s Recoveries", organized by Christian Aid Nigeria on August 28, 2024, in Abuja. 
The dialogue was held in collaboration with implementing partners, including the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), the Tax Justice & Governance Platforms, Brain Builders Youth Development Initiative, Civil Right Concern, and Aid Foundation.
The event offered a platform for participants to discuss Nigeria's debt crisis and explore alternatives to address the country's revenue challenges, inefficiencies in expenditure, and the lack of transparency and accountability in debt management—which are critical factors contributing to Nigeria's debt issues.
The event also featured presentation of two key research outputs: "The Role of Private Creditors in Nigeria's Debt Crisis and Its Human Cost" and "Tax Expenditure and Its Implications for Debt Management and Sustainability in Nigeria." 
The dialogue sessions featured discussions on Nigeria’s debt trap, its sustainability, and the challenges it poses, which stakeholders noted have led to fiscal pressures on the Nigerian economy

Young people in Nigeria are leading the charge on climate action, creating innovative solutions to address the climate crisis. However, they encounter significant barriers, particularly in accessing funding and investment needed to scale their impact.
On August 27, 2024, CSEA researchers Abdulkhalid Salihu and Fiyinfoluwa Kehinde participated in the Youth and Climate Change Innovation Lab organized by ActionAid Nigeria in Abuja. The event provided a platform for key stakeholders to discuss existing challenges and explore sustainable green alternatives for livelihoods.
During the discussions, our researchers highlighted the importance of evidence-based actions and policies grounded in climate change research to support youth-led initiatives. They emphasised the need for increased research funding from both local and international stakeholders to enhance adaptation strategies. This dialogue represents a crucial step in our collective effort to promote just transitions and sustainable development in Nigeria