The Centre for Development, Health and Rights (CEDHAR), a non-governmental organisation, has announced a new initiative aimed at promoting the rights and well-being of rural women, children, and persons with disabilities (PWDs) across Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Executive Director, Moses Omidiora, CEDHAR said it will focus on access to justice, equitable healthcare, sustainable livelihoods, and social inclusion through community-level engagement and advocacy.
Registered in 2019 but commencing operations in 2025, the organisation describes itself as a grassroots, non-profit body working to build the voices of excluded and vulnerable populations. According to the statement, CEDHAR’s activities will centre on breaking cycles of poverty and marginalisation through development, health, and human rights programmes.
“The launch of CEDHAR marks a bold step toward a more just, inclusive, and equitable society,” Omidiora said. “We are here to challenge systems of exclusion, promote grassroots empowerment, and work hand-in-hand with communities, institutions, and policymakers to uphold human dignity and opportunity for all.”
The group’s development model, according to the Executive Director, is “people-centered and justice-driven,” and will include a range of interventions such as legal aid, policy engagement, youth leadership development, and social entrepreneurship programmes.
CEDHAR’s thematic areas include gender equality, youth development, good governance, economic inclusion, and human rights education. It also plans to collaborate with both government and civil society stakeholders to build inclusive systems that address community-level needs.
“Our vision is to see a world where all people, regardless of status, can enjoy their rights, access quality healthcare, and live in dignity,” Omidiora said. “We will promote and protect the rights of vulnerable groups and foster inclusive development where everyone participates in decision-making.”
The organisation said it will prioritise engagement with under-served communities and establish strategic partnerships to advance its mission.
