Batnon Center for Environment and Sustainable Development was honored to facilitate the recent Workshop on Integrating IFAD’s Social, Environmental, and Climate Assessment Procedures (SECAP) in FGN/IFAD Value Chain Development Programme (VCDP) held on 22–23 May 2025, in Awka, Anambra State. The event brought together procurement officers, M&E experts, and field practitioners to deepen understanding and application of climate-resilient development practices within IFAD-supported projects.
Representing Batnon Center, Ugboaja Chukwuebuka, Head of Operations and Knowledge Management Officer, actively facilitated knowledge exchange sessions and shared insights on embedding social and environmental safeguards into project implementation frameworks.
SECAP Integration Workshop : Key Focus Areas and Contributions
Batnon Center contributed to meaningful discussions centered on practical strategies for integrating SECAP principles into operational systems. Key thematic areas included:
- Climate Risk Screening and adaptation planning
- Stakeholder Engagement Best Practices, with emphasis on inclusivity
- Alignment of SECAP with National Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) Guidelines
- Design of Effective Grievance Redress Mechanisms (GRMs)
- Integration of SECAP into Procurement and M&E Processes
Strategic Recommendations
Participants identified several priority actions aligned with the goals of SECAP and sustainable development:
- Inclusive Stakeholder Mapping: Engage vulnerable and marginalized groups early in the project cycle to ensure equitable outcomes.
- Mandatory Climate Risk Assessments: Institutionalize climate risk screening for high-impact interventions using tools like ThinkHazard!
- Procurement Compliance: Embed non-negotiable SECAP clauses in procurement documents to enforce accountability among contractors.
- Multi-Tiered GRMs: Establish robust, accessible grievance mechanisms that not only collect complaints but also drive corrective action and learning.
Also See – Our 2025 World Environment Day Celebratory Post
Batnon Center extends its appreciation to all facilitators, participants, and organizers for their commitment to advancing sustainable development practices. We remain dedicated to supporting initiatives that strengthen climate resilience, safeguard communities, and promote inclusive growth across Nigeria.
