In a landmark move for professional governance and sustainable development, Nigeria has officially certified its inaugural cohort of Social Standards Professionals and inaugurated a 21-member national advisory board. This formalizes the Nigerian Social Standards Professional Certification Programme (NSSPCP), creating a new, recognized profession dedicated to managing the human and community impacts of major projects.
The certification, announced in Abuja, concludes a rigorous assessment process that began in mid-2025. It represents the culmination of a significant, World Bank-supported initiative valued at approximately $80 million. The programme involves a consortium of 11 key implementing entities, including six universities, the National Universities Commission (NUC), and three federal ministries, signaling a deep, multi-sectoral commitment to institutionalizing social safeguards.
What Are Social Standards and Why Do They Matter?
Social Standards Professionals are specialists trained to identify, assess, and mitigate the social risks and negative impacts of development projects. This goes beyond traditional environmental impact assessments. When a new road, dam, or housing estate is built, it can displace communities, disrupt livelihoods, create land disputes, and exacerbate social inequalities. Social standards practitioners work to ensure these projects are implemented ethically, with mechanisms for community consultation, grievance redress, and equitable benefit-sharing. Their work is guided by frameworks like the World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF), which has become a global benchmark.
Dr. Tosin Oso, a World Bank consultant involved in the programme, hailed the milestone. “Today marks a major step forward for social risk management practice in Nigeria,” he stated. “The establishment of a functional, independent certification board is crucial for sustaining professionalism, credibility, and growth in this field for years to come.”
A Nationwide Capacity-Building Engine
The programme is structured for massive scale and longevity. It operates through six designated Centres of Excellence spread across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones:
- University of Benin (South-South)
- University of Lagos (South-West)
- Tafawa Balewa University (North-East)
- Ahmadu Bello University (North-West)
- Federal University of Technology, Owerri (South-East)
- Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi (North-Central)
These centers have already trained nearly 30,000 students under an academic track (Track A) that will run until 2029. From this pool, 1,026 candidates have now passed the stringent certification process to become licensed practitioners. As explained by Prof. James Ayangunna of the University of Ibadan, these professionals are trained as generalists capable of handling grievances and social risks across diverse sectors—from infrastructure and housing to health and land reform.
Beyond Certification: Integration and Impact
The programme’s vision extends beyond merely issuing certificates. A key strategic objective is to integrate these new professionals into the fabric of national development. Mr. Okwesa Benjamin, Project Coordinator and Deputy Director at the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, revealed that collaborations are underway with the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. The goal is to create dedicated career pathways and opportunities for certified professionals within federal and state ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs). This ensures that social safeguards are not an afterthought but a core competency within government project planning and execution units.
“The essence is to address critical capacity gaps in the social sector,” Benjamin emphasized. “We have developed a comprehensive curriculum and work plan to ensure these professionals can deliver high-quality, ethical services that protect communities and enhance project outcomes.”
A New Paradigm for Nigerian Development
The formalization of this profession signifies a paradigm shift. It moves Nigeria from ad-hoc social management to a systematic, professionalized approach. For communities, it promises a stronger voice and better protection. For investors and development partners, it reduces project risks related to social conflict and delays. For the nation, it builds indigenous expertise that aligns major projects with sustainable and inclusive growth goals.
With the 21-member advisory board now inducted under the chairmanship of Prof. Muhammad Nuhu, the focus turns to upholding standards, expanding the profession’s reach, and ensuring these first 1,026 certified professionals become catalysts for more responsible and equitable development across Nigeria.
Edited by Tosin Kolade
