Group urges CAC to introduce support mechanisms, waiver for Civil Society Organizations

By Praise Chinecherem

Global Rights supported 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 group, led by one of the COP Steering Committee member, Comr. Okeke Ugochukwu of the JONAPWD, Anambra State chapter made the appeal during an advocacy visit to the CAC management in Awka.

He said the call was necessary to familiarize with the Commission on the activities of the COP and to find 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, including inadequate registration updates, bottlenecks in filling annual returns, lack of relationship between the Commission and CSOs in the state and accessing timely information.etc

According to him, several of such issues are more pronounced for small and community based organizations, which often lack legal or technical expertise to manage compliance without additional guidance.

Okeke who also made the request on behalf of Anambra state CSOs Community of practice called for periodic sensitization fora for nonprofit organizations to better appreciate their legal responsibilities under the CAC framework.

“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 want CAC to establish a regular interface or help desk for CSOs to receive guidance, resolve issues and stay updated on relevant policy changes or deadlines.

“CAC should also strengthen collaboration with CSOs networks to co-create solutions that ensure compliance while reducing unnecessary administrative burdens,” he added.

Underscoring the critical role of CSOs in supporting government efforts in education, health, youth development among others, Okeke pledged transparent operations and full compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

Earlier, a Global Rights Volunteer for the state, Anonu Rosemary appreciated the CAC head in the state for the opportunity given the team to pay the visit.

While setting background for the advocacy explained what the Strengthening of Regulatory Environment programme of the Global Rights was all about and how it has helped the CSOs in regulatory compliance in the state.

“The programme 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 noted.

Responding, Head, CAC, Anambra office, Bar 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.