RismadarVoice Reporters
October 20, 2026
The Social Reorientation and Empowerment Network (SREN) has urged Nigerians to adopt the National Values Charter, popularly known as the “7 for 7” initiative, as a framework for evaluating political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The organisation said voters should prioritise integrity, competence, accountability and commitment to national development rather than allowing ethnicity, religion, political affiliation or personal relationships to determine their electoral choices.
SREN made the call in a statement signed by its President, Dr Daniel Evans Eshett, on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
According to Eshett, the National Values Charter, developed by the National Orientation Agency (NOA), provides a framework through which citizens can assess the performance, conduct and responsibilities of political leaders and individuals seeking public office.
He explained that the charter represents a social contract between the Nigerian government and its citizens, outlining the obligations of public authorities alongside the responsibilities expected of the people.
The framework comprises two components, the Nigerian Promise and the Citizen’s Code, each containing seven fundamental commitments.
Under the Nigerian Promise, the government is expected to uphold equality, democracy, entrepreneurship and employment, peace and security, inclusivity, freedom and justice, and meritocracy.
SREN explained that these principles require elected representatives and public officials to protect citizens’ rights, maintain democratic institutions, create economic opportunities, guarantee security and ensure fairness in public appointments and governance.
The organisation maintained that political candidates should be assessed against these responsibilities, particularly their past performance, public statements and demonstrated commitment to serving the people.
The second component, the Citizen’s Code, emphasises discipline, duty of care, tolerance, leadership, accountability, environmental awareness and resilience.
Eshett said the principles were intended to encourage responsible citizenship, peaceful coexistence and active participation in national development.
He urged Nigerians to examine candidates’ records and demand clear explanations of how their proposed policies would address the country’s challenges.
SREN also encouraged citizens to hold elected officials accountable after elections, stressing that responsible governance required continuous public scrutiny beyond campaign periods.
The organisation expressed concern that political decisions driven primarily by ethnic, religious or partisan loyalties could weaken accountability and distract attention from candidates’ qualifications and performance.
It maintained that the National Values Charter offered citizens a practical guide for measuring leadership against shared national expectations.
SREN called for greater public awareness of the charter and encouraged Nigerians to apply its principles when participating in political discussions, evaluating campaign promises and exercising their voting rights.
The organisation said strengthening democratic accountability required both responsible leadership and an informed electorate willing to demand transparency, fairness and measurable results from public officeholders.
