The training, sponsored by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF), focused on strengthening organisational efficiency, accountability and the adoption of digital systems for improved service delivery.
The Spinal Cord Injuries Association of Nigeria (SCIAN) has organised a one-day capacity-building workshop for its staff and volunteers, aimed at strengthening organisational effectiveness, improving administrative processes and promoting the adoption of global best practices.
The workshop, held on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at the SCIAN Development Centre, Lagos, was themed “Effective Monitoring & Evaluation, Information Technology and Digital Reporting Systems.”
The training was sponsored by the Disability Rights Fund (DRF) as part of ongoing efforts to enhance SCIAN’s institutional capacity and equip its personnel with the knowledge and practical skills required to deliver more effective programmes and interventions.
Speaking at the opening session, SCIAN’s Interim National President, Abdulwahab Matepo, said the workshop was designed to keep Secretariat personnel abreast of their responsibilities while ensuring that the Association’s operations align with global best practices.
He expressed appreciation to the Disability Rights Fund for its support, noting that building the capacity of administrative staff and volunteers was essential to strengthening the organisation.
Matepo urged participants to take full advantage of the training, apply the knowledge gained and translate the experience into improved performance.
He also acknowledged the participation of SCIAN chairpersons from Lagos and Ogun States, expressing optimism that they would utilise the knowledge acquired to strengthen their respective chapters.
THREE KEY AREAS OF FOCUS
The workshop provided participants with practical insights into three critical areas considered essential for effective organisational management and programme delivery.
1. Effective Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL)
Participants explored the importance of systematic monitoring and evaluation in measuring programme performance, tracking progress, identifying implementation challenges and assessing the impact of organisational interventions.
The session emphasised the need for clear objectives, measurable indicators, effective data collection and the application of lessons learned to improve programme outcomes.
2. Information Technology (IT)
The IT session examined how technology can strengthen organisational administration, communication, documentation, information management and service delivery.
Participants were introduced to the importance of leveraging appropriate technological tools to improve efficiency and ensure that organisational processes are more effective and responsive.
3. Digital Reporting Systems
The training also highlighted the growing importance of digital reporting systems in collecting, managing, analysing and presenting organisational information.
Participants gained insights into how digital tools can promote accurate documentation, timely reporting, transparency and accountability while improving the quality of information shared with donors, partners and other stakeholders.
STRENGTHENING SCIAN’S INSTITUTIONAL CAPACITY
The workshop represents an important step towards strengthening SCIAN’s organisational systems and improving its ability to deliver on its mandate of supporting persons with spinal cord injuries across Nigeria.
Effective monitoring and evaluation, combined with reliable information technology and digital reporting systems, are essential for building a credible, transparent and sustainable organisation.
For SCIAN, the knowledge acquired is expected to improve programme implementation, strengthen documentation, enhance communication between the national secretariat and state chapters, and promote accountability in the management of projects and interventions.
It will also position the Association to generate credible evidence of its work, measure its impact and demonstrate results to development partners, donors and other stakeholders.
NIGERIA NETWORK OF NGOs EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR FACILITATES TRAINING
The workshop was facilitated by Mr. Oyebisi Babatunde Oluseyi, Executive Director of the Nigeria Network of NGOs, who shared valuable insights and practical knowledge on effective monitoring and evaluation, information technology and digital reporting systems.
His presentation underscored the importance of institutional strengthening, proper documentation, accountability and the adoption of improved organisational practices as essential ingredients for achieving sustainable results.
PARTICIPANTS COMMEND SCIAN LEADERSHIP
Participants expressed appreciation to SCIAN’s leadership for prioritising staff and volunteer development and creating an opportunity for professional growth and knowledge enhancement.
They described the workshop as a valuable learning experience, acknowledging that building a stronger and more effective SCIAN requires more than commitment and dedication. It also demands continuous learning, improved technical skills, functional organisational systems and a strong culture of accountability.
The capacity-building initiative reinforces the importance of investing in people and institutional development as SCIAN continues to strengthen its operations and advance the interests and wellbeing of persons with spinal cord injuries in Nigeria.
Ultimately, the success of the training will be measured not only by the knowledge acquired but also by how effectively participants translate the lessons into improved organisational performance, stronger programmes and better outcomes for the people SCIAN serves.
