Research is a key aspect of DARC’s mission, to inform action and provide knowledge in policy development and future project implementation. DARC’s research cuts across various sectors as a means to understand various issues.
Project: Governance Statistics Propagation over New Media Channels
Funders: Ford Foundation, Office for West Africa; Institute of International Education, Inc (IIE) New York
Project Manager: Development Alternatives and Resource Center (DARC)
DARC with funding from the Ford Foundation and the Institute of International Education, Inc (IIE) New York conducted a research that created an avenue for different voices from all segments of society to be heard using new media platforms to independently disseminate unbiased public sector data and evidence. DARC started by identifying, establishing and analyzing the principal contributors to the discourse on governance, created an online persona that consistently kept on building influence around topics related to good governance, and transparent politics in order to positively impact Nigerians while actively monitoring these issues online. The discussions surrounding good governance in Nigeria was based on fact, credible and measurable data from government sources e.g. Data on current and past government budgets, differentials in training, food, transportation and salary expenses by Ministries, Departments & Agencies (MDAs), and a broader range of perspectives.
Project: First Bank of Nigeria Limited Professorial Chair Endowment in 17 Nigerian Universities
Client: First Bank of Nigeria Limited
Project Manager:Development Alternatives and Resource Center (DARC)
DARC conducted an assessment exercise for First Bank of Nigeria Limited to review the revised endowment structure, identify challenges and grey areas, remunerate effectiveness and streamline her Endowment in 17 Nigerian Universities across Nigeria as well as develop best practices approach to ensure mileage of the endowment. The FBN Endowment in universities was widely acknowledged to be useful and relevant, especially for the enhancement of research and academic excellence, as well as provision of needed facilities, especially teaching facilities such as lecture theatres, I.C.T Park, etc., and office space for staff.
Project: First bank of Nigeria Limited Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Policy Document
Client: First Bank of Nigeria Limited
Project Manager:Development Alternatives and Resource Center (DARC)
DARC proposed and consulted forFirst Bank of Nigeria Limited to develop FBN’s CSR Policy document. The strategy document would showcase a more innovative implementation approach FBN’s CSR frame work. The exercise detailed the structures that must be put in place for CSR Governance, involvement of internal and external stakeholders. It also outlined and reported the process of developing business plans, expanded on current funding mechanism, performance management system and reporting frame work.
Project: Market survey for financial services to micro, small and medium enterprises in Eastern Nigeria
DARC in collaboration with K-REP Advisory Services, carried out a market survey for financial services to micro, small and medium enterprises in Eastern Nigeria. The survey identified the sources of formal and informal financing for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Eastern Nigeria (Aba, Nnewi and Onitsha) and assessed their performance. Recommendations were made on how the financial services delivery system may be improved through products and service innovativeness as well as delivery mechanisms.
Project: Research and product development for artisans and small scale miners in Nigeria
DARC conducted a study on the demand and supply of formal and informal financing of artisanal and small scale miners in Nigeria, while exploring the role of cooperatives formed by the sector players. Issues relating to child labour, gender and risk issues in the sector were also investigated. The study was conducted in three States; Gombe (Gypsum), Nassarawa (Barytes) and Oyo (Gemstones). Through detailed analysis of date, the study explored the various financing options and products that could be designed to meet the financial needs of the sector, in collaboration with formal financial service providers.
Project: Research examining Borno State’s poverty profile and ongoing intervention to reduce poverty especially in areas of reproductive health, economic empowerment and governance
DARC carried out a research that examined Borno State’s poverty profile and ongoing interventions to reduce poverty especially in the areas of reproductive health, economic empowerment and governance. The study assessed the efforts being put in place by various sectors with a view to bringing about poverty alleviation in the State. It also provided a broad outlook on how public and private sectors respond to interventions.