Luge Dynamics recently commenced the Lagos phase of the Governance and Systems Strengthening for Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) project with an inception visit and interactive training session at the Orimedu Community Development Initiative (OCDI) in Lagos State.
The engagement forms part of a six-month institutional strengthening initiative commissioned by SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria to enhance the governance, operational systems, and long-term sustainability of eight Community-Based Organizations across Nigeria.
During the visit, representatives of OCDI’s leadership, board members, staff, and key stakeholders participated in an engaging session focused on understanding the organization’s current governance structures, operational processes, and institutional development priorities. The meeting also provided an opportunity for participants to share experiences, identify existing strengths, and discuss areas where additional systems and structures could further improve the organization’s effectiveness.
The session marked the beginning of a collaborative capacity-strengthening journey that places community ownership at the centre of organizational development. Rather than adopting a one-size-fits-all approach, the programme is designed to work alongside each participating CBO to develop practical solutions that reflect its unique context and operational realities.
Over the next six months, OCDI will benefit from a comprehensive programme of technical support that includes:
- Institutional capacity assessment
- Governance strengthening and board development
- Financial management systems enhancement
- Human resource management systems
- Safeguarding and procurement policy development
- Project management and Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) strengthening
- Development of operational manuals and standardized organizational tools
- Ongoing mentoring and coaching support
Throughout the training, participants demonstrated a strong commitment to strengthening the organization’s governance and institutional systems. Discussions were highly interactive, with practical examples, questions, and shared experiences helping to shape a common understanding of good governance, accountability, transparency, and sustainable organizational management.
The Governance and Systems Strengthening Project recognizes that community-based organizations possess invaluable local knowledge, trusted relationships, and deep community roots. By complementing these strengths with robust governance frameworks and efficient operational systems, organizations such as OCDI will be better positioned to deliver sustainable, high-quality programmes that improve the lives of children, families, and communities.
This initial engagement represents the first step in what will be an intensive process of assessment, learning, co-creation, mentoring, and institutional development. As the project progresses, OCDI will work closely with Luge Dynamics and SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria to develop practical governance documents, operational manuals, standardized tools, and management systems that support accountability, resilience, and long-term organizational growth.
We appreciate the warm reception and active participation of the leadership and members of Orimedu Community Development Initiative during this inaugural session and look forward to supporting the organization throughout this transformational journey.
Together, we are strengthening community institutions to create lasting impact for children, families, and communities.
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