Chinedum Elekwachi
The Civil Society Organizations Community of Practice (COP), Anambra state Chapter has appealed to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) to introduce flexible support mechanisms, including wavers for community based Civil Society Organizations in Anambra state.
The COP supported by Global Rights, made the appeal during an advocacy visit to the CAC management in Awka.
Led by one of its Steering Committee member, Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, of the JONAPWD, Anambra State chapter, the COP said the visit was keep the Commission abreast of its activities.
The visit is also to find lasting solutions for CSOs facing genuine difficulties in meeting up with regulatory compliance of the Commission due to inadequate knowledge, funding or technical constraints.
He regretted several challenges faced by CSOs in navigating the regulatory processes.
These include inadequate registration updates, bottlenecks in filling annual returns, lack of relationship between the Commission and CSOs in the state and accessing timely information among others.
According to him, small and community-based organizations are more affected because they lack the legal or technical expertise to manage compliance without additional guidance.
Specific requests
Comrade Okeke specifically called for periodic sensitization for nonprofit organizations to better appreciate their legal responsibilities under the CAC framework.
“We want the support of the CAC, Anambra State office to also provide accessible and clear information to CSOs regarding registration categories, annual returns, trusteeship updates and other compliance expectations.
“We plead with you also to establish a regular interface or help desk for CSOs to receive guidance, resolve issues and stay updated on relevant policy changes or deadlines.
“It is also good to strengthen collaboration with CSOs networks to co-create solutions that ensure compliance while reducing unnecessary administrative burdens,” he added.
Ugochukwu emphasized the critical role of CSOs in supporting government efforts in education, health, youth development among others.
He pledged transparent operations and full compliance with relevant laws and regulations.
Setting the background for the advocacy, a Global Rights Volunteer for Anambra State, Chioma Anonu, explained the Strengthening of Regulatory Environment Programme implemented by the organization has helped the CSOs in regulatory compliance in the state.
She said, “It has moved CSOs from the level of total ignorance when it comes to regulatory compliance to a place of awareness and making efforts to comply.”
She appreciated the CAC head in Anambra for the friendly posture towards the team and for the warm reception.
CAC pledges support
Responding, Head, CAC, Anambra office, Mr Kingsley Ahamefula, pledged support for the organization to ensure seamless operations.
“Anytime you need us let us know of any challenges. If there’s any forum you want me to attend, just ensure the information comes on time. Even if I won’t make it, I’ll send a representative.
“If you’re inactive or not up to date with annual returns payment, we’ll delist you. By August 1, we’ll be renewing our service fees.
“On the issues of waver, it is not in my hands. It’s from the headquarters.”
Also in attendance for this advocacy were representatives from Global Rights, SIDEC, GPSDC and other CAC staff members.
