STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN FOR NIGERIA DISTRIBUTION SECTOR RECOVERY PROGRAM DISREP {P172891} Draft Report October 2020 Table of Contents LIST OF TABLES ................................................................................................................ iv LIST OF FIGURES .............................................................................................................. iv LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS .......................................................... v EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ....................................................................................................... 1 CHAPTER ONE ........................................................................................................................ 3 1.0 INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................... 3 1.1 Background Information ............................................................................................. 3 1.2 Purpose of the Project ................................................................................................. 5 1.3 Objectives of the Stakeholders Engagement Plan ....................................................... 6 1.4 Key Results Areas and Disbursement Linked Indicators (DLIs). ............................... 6 1.5 Stakeholder Engagement to date and Key Feedback received during Stakeholder Consultations.......................................................................................................................... 8 1.6 Principles for effective stakeholder engagement ........................................................ 9 1.7 Structure of Stakeholder Engagement Plan ............................................................... 10 CHAPTER TWO ..................................................................................................................... 11 2.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT REGULATORY CONTEXT ......................... 11 2.1 Stakeholder Engagement Regulatory Context .......... 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Bookmark not defined. 2.2 Key National Legal Provisions for Environmental and Social Safeguards and Citizen Engagement.......................................................................................................................... 11 2.2.1 The Freedom of Information Act ....................................................................... 11 2.2.2 Constitution of the Federal Republic ................................................................. 11 2.2.3 Nigerian Environmental Assessment Law ......................................................... 11 2.2.4 Other Legal Provisions on Stakeholder Engagement and Disclosure ............... 12 2.3 World Bank Environmental and Social Standard on Stakeholder Engagement ....... 12 CHAPTER THREE ................................................................................................................. 13 3.0 STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS ...................................... 13 3.1 Program Stakeholder identification and Analysis ..................................................... 13 3.2 Stakeholder Categorization ....................................................................................... 13 3.2.1 Implementing Agencies ..................................................................................... 13 3.2.2 Affected Parties .................................................................................................. 15 3.2.3 Interested Parties ................................................................................................ 16 CHAPTER FOUR .................................................................................................................... 18 4.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN (THROUGHOUT PROJECT LIFE- CYCLE) ............................................................................................................................... 18 4.1 Stakeholder Engagement Plan................................... 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Bookmark not defined. 4.2 Engagement Methods and Tools ............................................................................... 18 4.3 Identifying Themes to Discuss with Stakeholders .................................................... 22 ii | P a g e 4.4 Description of Engagement Methods ........................................................................ 23 4.5 Institutional Stakeholders Engagement ..................................................................... 31 4.6 Consultation with Stakeholders ................................................................................. 34 4.7 Disclosure and Participation Plan ............................................................................. 34 4.7.1 Disclosure Mechanism ....................................................................................... 35 4.7.2 Process for Disclosure of Information .............................................................. 35 4.8 Timetable for Disclosure ........................................................................................... 36 CHAPTER FIVE ..................................................................................................................... 38 5.0 RESOURCES AND RESPONSIBILITIES .............................................................. 38 5.1 Introduction ............................................................................................................... 38 5.1.1 External Resources............................................................................................. 39 5.1.2 Training .............................................................................................................. 39 5.1.3 Financial Resources ........................................................................................... 40 5.1.4 Budget ................................................................................................................ 40 CHAPTER SIX ........................................................................................................................ 41 6.0 GRIEVANCE MANAGEMENT .............................................................................. 41 6.1 Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) .................................................................... 41 6.2 Grievance Resolution Framework ............................................................................. 42 6.3 DISREP Grievance Escalation Process ..................................................................... 43 6.4 Grievance logs ........................................................................................................... 44 6.5 Screening, Prioritization and Assignment ................................................................. 44 6.6 Monitoring and reporting on grievances ................................................................... 45 6.7 Points of contact ........................................................ 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Bookmark not defined. 7.2 Reporting ................................................................................................................... 47 7.3 Stakeholder Involvement in Project Monitoring ....................................................... 48 7.4 Ongoing Reporting to Stakeholders .......................................................................... 48 7.5 Training ..................................................................................................................... 49 ANNEXES ............................................................................................................................... 50 ANNEX 1: Proposed Budget Line Items for Stakeholder Engagement ............................. 50 ANNEX 2: NERC Customer Classification Index ............................................................. 50 ANNEX 3: PROPOSED TRAINING OUTLINE .............................................................. 52 iii | P a g e LIST OF TABLES Table 4.1: Stakeholder group consultation methods 21 Table 4.2: Engagement Techniques 24 Table 4.3: Methods/Tools for Information Provision, Feedback, Consultation and Participation 26 Table 4.4: Consultation methods for vulnerable groups 31 Table 4.5: Stakeholder Engagement Among the Implementing Agencies, Partners and DISREP Coordinating Agency under the IPF AND TA components 33 Table 4.6: Stakeholder Engagement and Disclosure Methods 36 Table 5.1: Organizational Roles and Responsibilities ............................................................ 38 Table 5.2: Resources facilitation............................................. 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Table 6.1: Grievance priority classification ............................................................................ 45 Table 7.1: Key Performance Indicators by Project phase ....................................................... 47 Table 7.2: Outline of Reports to Stakeholders ........................................................................ 49 LIST OF FIGURES Figure 1.1: FGN's PSRP framework and WB's support in alignment to PSRP ....................... .4 Figure 1.2: Theory of Change (Result Chain) And Causal Link Of DISREP Activities.......... 8 Figure 1.3: The Process Flow of Stakeholder Engagement .................................................... 10 Figure 4.1: Important questions for preparing a message ....................................................... 19 Figure 4.2: Checklist to guide in developing clear messages ................................................. 19 Figure 4.3: Re-configured existing coordination structures in line with the Nigeria DISREP .................................................................................................................................................. 32 Figure 6.1: Grievance Mechanism flowchart.......................................................................... 41 iv | P a g e LIST OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS DISREP Nigeria Distribution Sector Recovery Program AoI Area of Influence CDA Community Development Association CCT Conditional Cash Transfers CSOs Civil Society Organizations CLO Community Liaison Officer DLI Disbursement-linked indicator DLR Disbursement-linked results DISCO Distribution Company ES Executive Summary ESS Environmental and Social Standards ESF Environmental and Social Framework FGD Focus Group Discussions FPIC Free Prior Informed Consent GRM Grievance Redress Mechanism GO Grievance Officer IDP Internally Displaced Person IVA Independent Verification Agent LGA Local Government Area LRP Livelihood Restoration Plan MDAs Ministries, Departments and Agencies MPA Multi-phase Programmatic Approach MYTO Multi Year Tarriff Order FGN Federal Government of Nigeria FMEnv Federal Ministry of Environment FMoF Federal Ministry of finance Budget and Planning FMoP Federal Ministry of Power NGO Non-Governmental Organization PAF Project Affected Families PAP Project Affected Person PDO Project Development Objective PID Project Identification Document PforR Program for Result VDC Village Development Committee WBG World Bank Group WDR World Development Report v|Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The World Bank is supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria’s comprehensive reform efforts in the Power Sector through the proposed large integrated programmatic engagement starting with a Power Sector Recovery Program (PSRP) PSRP program for results (PforR) operation. The programmatic engagement involves a series of integrated operations under two streams, PSRP PforRs and Distribution Sector Recovery Program (DISREP) (Distribution PforRs), to holistically address the sector issues. The PSRP PforRs will help establish policy, regulatory, contractual and financing conditions for power sector companies to improve performance while the proposed Distribution Sector Recovery Program (DISREP) and its additional financing will support improvement of DISCOs operational performance, service delivery and governance. Specifically, the DISREP is a hybrid operation, combining Program for Results (PforR), Investment Project Finance (IPF) and Technical Assistance (TA) components. The PforR component will provide funding to DISCOs for the implementation of critical elements of their Power Improvement Plan (PIPs) through the on-lending of World Bank funds to DISCOs. For the effective implementation of the Nigeria DISREP program, including the activities listed under the IPF and TA components, there is a need for open and inclusive engagements/dialogues with stakeholders, Project Affected Entities (PAEs), and other interested parties. Stakeholder engagement is a critical process that identifies the procedures for the proponent to map, identify, communicate and engage with people affected by its decision and activities, as well as others with an interest in the implementation and outcomes of its decisions and the project. It is an inclusive process that is required throughout the lifecycle of project implementation, commencing as early as possible. Participatory approaches in project planning and implementation enhance project policy, ownership, sustainability and also empowers targeted beneficiaries. The Program Development Objective (PDO) is to improve financial and technical performance of the electricity distribution companies. Consistent with the PSRP, the DISREP seeks to achieve this objective by supporting the distribution sector to invest in the infrastructure and operational improvements required to turn around their technical and financial performance, in line with approved PIPs. Specific objectives of this SEP are; • To map and identify the key stakeholder groups; • To develop the procedure for effective stakeholder engagements throughout the Program’s lifecycle; and • To identify resources needed and timeframe to achieve effective participation in each stage of the process and describes the stakeholder engagement process. Applicable National Legal Provisions and Regulations for Environmental and Social Safeguards and Citizen Engagement include; Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999) as amended, The Freedom of Information Act (2011), Nigerian Environmental Impact 1|Page Assessment (EIA) Act Cap E12, LFN 2004, The Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act, Cap N138, 2004. Applicable World Bank Policies include; The World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF)’s Environmental and Social Standard (ESS) 10. The level of success and sustainability of the DISREP program is crucial and dependent upon a proper Stakeholder Engagement Plan and its associated activities taking place. For the purposes of effective and tailored engagement, the stakeholders of DISREP can be divided into three core categories: 1. Implementing Agencies (e.g., MDAs) 2. Affected Parties (beneficiaries, PAPs, etc.) 3. Interested Parties (local population who can benefit indirectly, etc.) In keeping with the applicable reference framework and the expectations of the stakeholders, the project will undertake regular engagement with the key stakeholder groups identified through the life of the project utilizing various engagement methods identified for the purpose of this project such as; focus group discussions, semi-structured and structured interviews and questionnaires, open public meetings, and information disclosure. The management, coordination and implementation of the SEP and its integral tasks will be the responsibility of dedicated team members within the DISREP PMU. In compliance with applicable local and national laws and essentially the World Bank’s OP 4.01, a project-specific mechanism is being set up to handle complaints and issues. This process (referred to as the Grievance Redress Mechanism) would be specially designed to collect, collate, review and redress stakeholders’ concerns, complaints and grievances. The GRM will be accessible and understandable for all stakeholders in the project and for the entire project life. Monitoring and evaluation of the stakeholder process is considered vital to ensure the DISREP can respond to identified issues and alter the schedule and nature of engagement activities to make them more effective. A series of key performance indicators for each stakeholder engagement stage have been developed and outlined in Table 7.1. 2|Page CHAPTER ONE 1.0 INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background Information The World Bank is supporting the Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) comprehensive reform efforts in the Power Sector through the proposed large integrated programmatic engagement starting with a Power Sector Recovery Program (PSRP) PSRP program for results (PforR) operation. The programmatic engagement will involve a series of integrated operations under two streams – PSRP PforRs and Distribution Sector Recovery Program (DISREP) (Distribution PforRs), to holistically address the sector issues (Figure 1). The PSRP PforRs will help establish policy, regulatory, contractual and financing conditions for power sector companies to improve performance while the proposed Distribution Sector Recovery Program (DISREP) and its additional financing will support improvement of DISCOs operational performance, service delivery and governance. As part of efforts to bridge the gap between the demand and supply of electricity within the country the Federal government launched the Electric Power Sector Reform Act in 2005 to improve the performance of the electricity sector. This Act unbundled the then government- owned electricity utility (the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN) into Power Generation (GenCos), Transmission (TCN) and Distribution Companies (DISCOs. The Act also created and empowered the electricity sector regulator (The Nigeria Electricity Regulatory Commission – NERC) as well as the Bulk Electricity Trader (NBET). The ambitious step towards the revamping of the power sector was stalled by high losses (both technical and non-technical) occasioned by low collections, coupled with average tariffs below cost reflective level, accounting for an annual financial deficit in the sector in 2019 of approximately NGN 592 billion (USD 1.65 billion5). This translates into the inability of the DISCOs to meet their remittances to NBET under the Vesting Contracts (the estimated average remittance was about 29 percent for 2018). The Federal Government identified the need to coordinate the interventions geared towards economic recovery. To achieve this objective, the Federal Government launched the Power Sector Recovery Program (PSRP) in March 2017. PSRP relies on policy and regulatory environment, network infrastructure, operational efficiency, and financial sustainability to achieve its objective. The inability of the DISCOs to meet their financial obligations to NBET also affects the other components of the chain (TCN and the GenCos). To ultimately improve the revenue collection of the DISCOs it is necessary to initiate and implement programmes that will Reduce the current extremely high ATC&C losses, improve revenue collection, increase the number of customers connected to their network and thus increase revenues to be received and remitted to NBET as well as their credit worthiness. Having identified the DISCOs as the major actors upon which the financial viability of the entire sector depends, NERC has issued instructions requiring all DISCOs to submit a Performance Improvement Plan (PIP) as part of efforts towards achieving the objectives of the PSRP. The PIP is designed to “provide a framework for performance improvement and 3|Page monitoring in the 2020-2024 period� and will help NERC monitor and sustain improvements in operational performance in; i Electricity supply to customers ii Commercial operations and iii Management of corporate resources. Figure 1.1: FGN's PSRP framework and WB's support in alignment to PSRP The DISREP operation supports DISCOs in their implementation of approved PIPs and NERC in their oversight of the performance of the distribution sector. The DISREP is a hybrid operation, combining Program for Results (PforR), Investment Project Finance (IPF) and Technical Assistance (TA) components. The PforR component will provide funding to DISCOs for the implementation of critical elements of their PIPs through the on- lending of World Bank funds to DISCOs. The IPF component will provide additional support to DISCOs PIP implementation through the bulk procurement of customer meters in line with DISCOs PIP meter roll-out plans. The IPF component will also fund the procurement and commissioning of a DAP within NERC to assist them in their role of electricity network regulator and the agency responsible for oversight of the distribution sector and DISCO operations and performance. DISREP TA will support the design of a power consumer assistance fund in order to ensure that the most vulnerable Nigerian power consumers are not impacted by changes in distribution sector operations and tariff structures. TA will also be provided for implementation support for DISCOs as well as capacity building to the DISCOs and to the MoP with a focus on the evolution of the distribution sector and associated changes in sector commercial operations and business models and on how to address 4|Page the gender gap in electricity access in Nigeria. Together, the DISREP components will support the successful implementation of PIPs and, in-turn, address the infrastructure and operational improvement aspects of the PSRP, contributing to the overall sector viability and sustainability going forward. For the effective implementation of the Nigeria DISREP program including the activities listed under the IPF and TA components there is need for open and inclusive engagements/dialogues with stakeholders, Project Affected Persons (PAPs), and other interested parties. Stakeholder engagement is a critical process that identifies the procedures for the proponent to identify, communicate and engage with people affected by its decision and activities, as well as others with an interest in the implementation and outcomes of its decisions and the project. It is an inclusive process that is required throughout the lifecycle of project implementation, commencing as early as possible. Participatory approaches in project planning and implementation enhance project policy, ownership, sustainability and also empowers targeted beneficiaries. This SEP is designed to fulfil the program’s requirements as stated in ESS10 of the ESF. Its goal is to promote and support inclusive and transparent participation of all stakeholders in the design and implementation of the DISREP. Where properly designed and implemented, stakeholder engagement supports the development of strong, constructive and responsive relationships that are important for successful management of the entire project’s Stakeholder engagement is most effective when initiated at an early stage of the project development process and is an integral part of early project decisions and the assessment, management and monitoring of the project’s environmental and social risks and impacts. The Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) describes the methods of engagement with stakeholders throughout the lifecycle of the project. It identifies information and types of interaction to be conducted in each phase of the project, considers and addresses stakeholders’ communication and physical accessibility challenges, and includes any other stakeholder engagement required. The Stakeholder Engagement will involve the following steps: • stakeholder identification and analysis; • proper documentation of all stakeholders’ plans on how the engagement with stakeholder will take place; • disclosure of information; • consultation with stakeholders; • addressing and responding to grievances, and • reporting to stakeholders. 1.2 Purpose of the Project The Program development objective (PDO) is to improve financial and technical performance of the electricity distribution companies. Consistent with the PSRP, the DISREP seeks to achieve this objective by supporting the distribution sector invest in the infrastructure and operational improvements required to turn-around their technical and financial performance, in line with approved PIPs. 5|Page The following outcome indicators will be used to measure achievement of the PDO: (i) PDO Indicator 1: Percentage of metered customers’ increases; (ii) PDO Indicator 2: Annual electricity billed for increases; number of grids with improved stability, reliability and/or capacity to reduce technical losses (iii) PDO Indicator 3: Annual collection of billed electricity increases; (iv) PDO Indicator 4: Annual verification of DISCOs compliance with Code of Corporate Governance. 1.3 Objectives of the Stakeholders Engagement Plan The objective of the Stakeholders Engagement Plan is: • To develop the procedure for effective stakeholder engagements throughout the Project’s lifecycle; • To identify the key stakeholder groups; and • To identify resources needed and timeframe to achieve effective participation in each stage of the process and describes the stakeholder engagement process. 1.4 Key Results Areas and Disbursement Linked Indicators (DLIs). The DISREP PforR component will provide funds for the early stages of PIP implementation to improve DISCOs technical and financial performance, enabling them to raise the private financing required to fully achieve their PIP targets. The PforR component of the operation will provide World Bank funds to BPE, as the designated representative of the FGN, in order to on-lend to DISCOs. DISREP PforR funding will be disbursed following the verified achievement of disbursement-linked indicators (DLIs), which have been developed in partnership with BPE and DISCOs and represent key metrics in the performance turn-around of DISCOs’ operations. Within this framework, the program by design is structured to be flexible, fast disbursing along the following three (3) key result areas: The proposed Key Results Areas and DLIs for the program are as follows: Result Area 1. improved DISCO operational performance The DLIs for the program in result area is as follows: o DLI#1: Number of distribution transformer-level meters installed by DISCOs o DLI#2: Number of new connections by DISCOs o DLI#3: Kilometres of distribution lines rehabilitated by DISCOs Result Area 2. Enabling diversification of commercial options for DISCOs to supply their demands. The DLIs for the program in result area is as follows: o DLI#4: Increased collection efficiency by DISCOs o DLI#5: Meeting the demand supply gap projected in DISCOs PIPs9 6|Page Result Area 3. (3) strengthened corporate governance and transparency. The DLIs for the program in result area is as follows: o DLI#6: Compliance with NERC Corporate Code of Governance by DISCOs o DLI#7: Implementation of Management Information Systems (MIS) by DISCOs In addition to the core PforR instrument above, the proposed DISREP will include two Investment Project Financing (IPF) components (USD 170 million) and two Technical Assistance (TA) components (30 million): Figure 1 below shows the theory of change (results chain) with the causal link between these DISREP activities, outputs, short-term outcomes, and longer-term outcomes. (a) IPF Component: NERC Data Aggregation Platform (USD 50 million). To support NERC in addressing problems of inadequate data availability, inconsistent data quality, and irregular reporting of the sector operators, compromising the NERC mandate on performance monitoring and oversight of DISCOs, the IPF1 project will support the scoping and implementation of a comprehensive Data Aggregation Platform (DAP) within NERC. (b) TA Component 1 (TA1): DISREP Implementation Support (USD 15 million). To support Program implementation, the TA1 would include the establishment of a Project Management Unit (PMU) in BPE (USD 10 million) to assist with the functions of the PforR Implementing Agency. In addition, the TA1 would include capacity building for implementation of measures identified in the Program Action Plan (e.g. strengthening of Safeguards, financial management, procurement capacity). (c) TA Component 2 (TA2): (USD 15 million). (i) Pillar I: Capacity Building (USD 12 million). The Pillar I will support capacity building in the MoP as well as DISCOs. This would include development of the policy for the Roadmap on electricity sector market evolution along with sector policies and regulation with the aim of developing a guideline/framework for investment in the distribution. In addition, Pillar I would support DISCOs capacity building and change management programs regarding the application of new business models and commercial operations in DISCO services (e.g. sub-franchising, premium customers, revenue protection schemes, etc.) (ii) Pillar II: Design of a Consumer Assistance Fund (USD 3 million). Improvements in DISCOs, and overall sector performance, are expected to support NERC efforts to review the power sector tariffs in order to reach a cost-reflective level. Whilst necessary for the stable financial performance of the power sector in the long-term, in the near/medium-term increased tariffs may negatively impact on some of the most vulnerable consumers. In order to limit to the largest extent possible these negative impacts, Pillar II will support the analysis of a Social Safety Net called the “Consumer Assistance Fund�. 7|Page Activities Outputs Outcomes Long-term outcomes Provide funding to Improved distribution PfR DISCOs for the network infrastructure implementation of PIPs • Increased number of Improved DISCO meters installed by operational efficiency DISCOs • Increased reliability of • Increased connections distribution network to the distribution • Increased electrification Establish a sustainable network • Improved financial Provide funding for the power sector • Rehabilitation of performance of bulk procurement of distribution lines by DISCOs customer meters for Remove constraints on DISCOs • Increased payments to DISCOs economic growth and on NBET IFP doing business Increased collection • Increases private sector efficiency by DISCOs investment in Provide funding and Increase private sector distribution sector support to NERC for the investment in the economy • Improve customer implementation of a DAP Reduced demand/supply satisfaction gap by DISCOs Provide a strong enabling environment for poverty Implementation of a DAP Diversified commercial reduction and shared by NERC options for DISCOs to prosperity supply their demands Provide capacity building Compliance with NERC Improve gender equity to DISCOs on the Corporate Code of Strengthened distribution electricity market transition sector governance and TA and new business models Governance by DISCOs transparency Implementation of MIS by Provide funding and DISCOs support to MoP for the development of a Design developed for Consumer Assistance Consumer Assistance Fund Fund Figure 1.2: Theory of Change (Result Chain) And Causal Link of DISREP Activities Full attainment of the project objectives hinges on the following critical assumptions: (i) Full PIP implementation combined with full Multi Year Tarriff Order (MYTO) implementation is sufficient to achieve sector sustainability; (ii) Adherence to NERC Code of Corporate Governance is sufficient to ensure good governance by DISCOs. 1.5 Stakeholder Engagement to Date and Key Feedback The ministries and institutions and participating implementing agencies at the federal and state levels were consulted to inform them about the project including the World Bank ESF and general safeguard concerns that need to be mainstreamed into the project. Their support to the project was also solicited along with a discussion on needs and capacities. Subsequently, a virtual stakeholder workshop was held on the 5th of October 2020 taking cognisance of the current COVID 19 pandemic and social distancing restrictions, where stakeholders from the existing implementing agencies in the result areas being the DISCO, NERC, TCN were convened to discuss and make further inputs on the instruments of the project like the Stakeholders Engagement Plan, and the Labour Management Procedures and Environmental. The inputs received in the course of interaction and completed questionnaire administration were duly incorporated. Participants in the forum and Respondents are aware of the DISREP project and above Fifty percent admitted that the project will impact them positively. Majority of the DISCO respondents professed to have carried out/ participated in similar stakeholder engagement 8|Page activities project with the World Bank Team and over fifty percent stated that those projects were successful. Engagement of Stakeholder has been seen to be an important tool for their project. About 75% of respondents indicated their most effective means of communication has been through the use of Radio & TV, Newspaper, Slots/programs, official correspondence, reports and use of town crier in the village areas while the preferred and effective method of engagement have been interviews, group discussion and having a meeting. There was, however, no consensus on a single methodology for every form of stakeholder engagement. Areas of concerns were mainly with respect to managing political influence in a productive manner and weak legal frameworks to support stakeholder engagement. Others include the reporting mechanism in transforming of the existing programs into the new Nigeria DISREP. Both concerns were addressed as part of the basis for the development of the Stakeholder Engagement Plan. 1.6 Principles for effective stakeholder engagement The program’s Stakeholder Engagement Plan (SEP) shall be informed by a set of principles defining its core values underpinning interactions with identified stakeholders. This principle shall align with the requirements of ESS10 which stipulates that meaningful stakeholder’s engagement should be free of external manipulations, interference, coercion, discrimination and intimidation. Some common principles based on “International Best Practice� include the following: • Commitment is demonstrated when the need to understand, engage and identify the community is recognized and acted upon early in the process and continuous throughout the project implementation; • Integrity occurs when engagement is conducted in a manner that fosters mutual respect and trust; • Respect is created when the rights, cultural beliefs, values and interests of stakeholders and affected communities are recognized; • Informed Participation and Responsiveness involves widely publicized information among all stakeholders in appropriate format respecting stakeholders view; • Transparency is demonstrated when community concerns are responded to in a timely, open and effective manner; • Inclusiveness is achieved when broad participation is encouraged and supported by appropriate participation opportunities; • Trust is achieved through open and meaningful dialogue that respects and upholds a community’s beliefs, values and opinions and • Measurement which is documenting the engagement process, its output and assessment. The process flow for stakeholder engagement indicated in figure 1.2 is represented as a circle because it is constant, where lessons from past experience will then shape future planning and engagement. The process is not linear; rather it is an iterative process in which an organisation learns and improves its ability to perform meaningful stakeholder engagement while developing relationships of mutual respect, in place of one-off consultations. 9|Page 1.7 Structure of Stakeholder Engagement Plan The structure of the stakeholder engagement plan will be as follows; • Introduction • Stakeholder Engagement Regulatory Context • Stakeholder Identification and analysis • Stakeholder Engagement Program • Resources and responsibilities • Grievance Redress Mechanism • Monitoring and Reporting Figure 1.3: The Process Flow of Stakeholder Engagement 10 | P a g e CHAPTER TWO 2.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT REGULATORY CONTEXT This section presents a brief overview of the national legal provisions that necessitates citizenship engagement, disclosure of public information and adequate response to queries, concerns and grievances raised by the public on key government actions. 2.1 Key National Legal Provisions for Citizen Engagement 2.1.1 The Freedom of Information Act The purpose of the Act is to make public records and information more freely available, provide for public access to public records and information, protect public records and information to the extent consistent with the public interest and the protection of personal privacy, protect serving public officers from adverse consequences for disclosing certain kinds of official information without authorization and establish procedures for the achievement of those objectives. This Act applies not only to public institutions but also to private organisations providing public services, performing public functions or utilising public funds. According to the Act, - All stakeholders are entitled to access to any records under the control of the government or public institution - Any stakeholder denied information can initiate a court proceeding to effect the release of such information - All public institutions shall make available any records as requested by the stakeholders within a period of 7 days 2.1.2 Constitution of the Federal Republic Chapter two of the Nigerian constitution takes socioeconomic rights of Nigerians into account. This chapter includes that no citizen should be denied the right to environment, the right to secure and adequate means of livelihood, right to suitable and adequate shelter, the right to suitable and adequate food etc. Section 20 of the constitution also takes into account the use of resources and provides that the environment must be protected and natural resource like water, air, and land, forest and wild life be safeguarded for the benefit of all stakeholders. 2.1.3 Nigerian Environmental Assessment Law This act provides guidelines for activities for which EIA is compulsory (such as mining operations, road development, coastal reclamation involving 50 or more hectares, etc.). It prescribes the procedure for conducting and reporting EIAs and dictates the general principles of an EIA. The EIA act enshrines that consideration must be given to all stakeholders before the commencement of any public or private project by providing for the involvement and input of all stakeholders affected by a proposed project. 11 | P a g e 2.1.4 Other Legal Provisions on Stakeholder Engagement and Disclosure The Nigerian Urban and Regional Planning Act, Cap N138, 2004 provides that any land development plan must be disclosed to stakeholders to prove that such projects would not harm the environment or constitute nuisance to the community. 2.2 World Bank Environmental and Social Standard on Stakeholder Engagement The World Bank’s Environmental and Social Framework (ESF)’s Environmental and Social Standard (ESS) 10, “Stakeholder Engagement and Information Disclosure�, recognizes “the importance of open and transparent engagement between the Borrower and project stakeholders as an essential element of good international practice� (World Bank, 2017: 97). Specifically, the requirements set out by ESS10 are the following: • “Borrowers will engage with stakeholders throughout the project life cycle, commencing such engagement as early as possible in the project development process and in a timeframe that enables meaningful consultations with stakeholders on project design. The nature, scope and frequency of stakeholder engagement will be proportionate to the nature and scale of the project and its potential risks and impacts; • Borrowers will engage in meaningful consultations with all stakeholders. Borrowers will provide stakeholders with timely, relevant, understandable and accessible information, and consult with them in a culturally appropriate manner, which is free of manipulation, interference, coercion, discrimination and intimidation; • The process of stakeholder engagement will involve the following, as set out in further detail in this ESS: (i) stakeholder identification and analysis; (ii) planning how the engagement with stakeholders will take place; (iii) disclosure of information; (iv) consultation with stakeholders; (v) addressing and responding to grievances; and (vi) reporting to stakeholders. • The Borrower will maintain and disclose as part of the environmental and social assessment, a documented record of stakeholder engagement, including a description of the stakeholders consulted, a summary of the feedback received and a brief explanation of how the feedback was taken into account, or the reasons why it was not.� (World Bank, 2017: 98). A Stakeholder Engagement Plan proportionate to the nature and scale of the project and its potential risks and impacts needs to be developed by the Borrower. It has to be disclosed as early as possible, and before project appraisal, and the Borrower needs to seek the views of stakeholders on the SEP, including on the identification of stakeholders and the proposals for future engagement. If significant changes are made to the SEP, the Borrower has to disclose the updated SEP (World Bank, 2017: 99). According to ESS10, the Borrower should also propose and implement a grievance mechanism to receive and facilitate the resolution of concerns and grievances of project-affected parties related to the environmental and social performance of the project in a timely manner (World Bank, 2017: 100). For more details on the WB Environmental and Social Standards, please follow the link below: https://www.worldbank.org/en/projects-operations/environmental-and-social- framework/brief/environmental-and-social-standards 12 | P a g e CHAPTER THREE 3.0 STAKEHOLDER IDENTIFICATION AND ANALYSIS 3.1 Program Stakeholder identification and Analysis Program stakeholders are ‘people who have a role in the Program, could be affected by the Program, or who are interested in the Program’. Project stakeholders can further be categorized as primary and secondary stakeholders. Primary stakeholders are individuals, groups or local communities that may be affected by the Project, positively or negatively, and directly or indirectly especially those who are directly affected, including those who are disadvantaged or vulnerable. Secondary stakeholders are broader stakeholders who may be able to influence the outcome of the Project because of their knowledge about the affected communities or political influence over them. Thus, the DISREP Program stakeholders as indicated in figure 3.1, are defined as individuals, groups or other entities who: (i) Have a role in the project implementation (also known as ‘implementing agencies’); (ii) are impacted or likely to be impacted directly or indirectly, positively or adversely, by the Project (also known as ‘affected parties’); and (iii) May have an interest in the Project (‘interested parties’). They include individuals or groups whose interests may be affected by the Project and who have the potential to influence the Project outcomes in any way. 3.2 Stakeholder Categorization For the purposes of effective and tailored engagement, the stakeholders of DISREP can be divided into three core categories: 1. Implementing Agencies 2. Affected Parties 3. Interested Parties 3.2.1 Implementing Agencies This category of stakeholders encompasses the leading agencies responsible for overseeing the successful implementation of the DISREP program. They include the: • Office of the Chief of Staff • Office of the Vice President • Federal Ministry of Finance Budget and National Planning (FMoF); • Federal Ministry of Power • Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) • Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) • Eleven Distribution Companies (DISCOs) • Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). • Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA). • The EA Department of the Federal Ministry of Environment; • The level of engagement with implementing agency will be contingent upon their respective roles and authorities in the management of environmental and social risks. 13 | P a g e Figure 3.1: DISREP Program Stakeholders In order to meet best practice approaches, DISREP Program implementing agencies will apply the following principles for stakeholder engagement: 14 | P a g e Figure 3.2: DISREP Principles for stakeholder engagement 3.2.2 Affected Parties Specifically, • The residential, industrial and commercial customers, associations of customers, as classified in annex 2 (The DISREP aims to directly benefit Nigerian power sector customers including residential, commercial and industrial customers and in particular women, with broader spillover benefits to other power sector participants and the broader Nigerian economy and environment) • The core investors in DISCOS, shareholders • Contractors/ equipment suppliers • State Government Ministries, Agencies • DISCOs There could also be impacts on indirect workers who will be engaged under the program activities. A subset of this category are the vulnerable groups. A significant factor in achieving inclusiveness of the engagement process is safeguarding the participation of vulnerable individuals in public consultations and other engagement forums established by the program. Vulnerable Groups are persons who may be disproportionately impacted or further 15 | P a g e disadvantaged by the project as compared with any other groups due to their vulnerable 1status, and that may require special engagement efforts to ensure their equal representation in the consultation and participation in the program. The DISREP will contribute to reducing the current reliance on alternative, carbon-intensive energy sources such as diesel/petrol-based generators, kerosene, or firewood, which are expensive and are associated with significant health and environmental impacts including climate impacts. Reliable access to electricity also improves customer productivity and removes a major constraint to economic development. The provision of reliable electricity access in particular benefits woman and girls, with evidence showing that new energy access and improved energy services can improve development outcomes for women and girls and help bridge the gender gap in many communities, for example, increasing a woman’s likelihood of working outside the home and reducing the amount of time women spend on household chores, including sourcing traditional energy supplies. 3.2.3 Interested Parties Interested Parties include stakeholders who may not experience direct impacts from the Project but who consider or perceive their interests as being affected by the project and/or who could influence the project and the process of its implementation in some way. Specifically, this category will include the following individuals and groups: • The local population who can benefit indirectly from interventions; • Residents and business entities, and individual entrepreneurs in the community area of influence; • Professional groups like Manufactures Association of Nigeria-MAN, Nigerian Bar Association (NBA); • Local contractors and consultants who can support in the delivery of the Project; • Local, regional and national level civil societies and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) with an interest in consumer’s advocacy, Social Protection and livelihood support; • Other government ministries and regulatory agencies at regional and national levels including environmental, technical, social development and labour authorities; • DISREPs Project employees and contractors; • Mass media and associated interest groups, including local, regional and national printed and broadcasting media, digital/web-based entities, and their associations; • Local Political groups; and • Academia Local NGOs and initiative/advocacy groups, particularly those focusing on consumer’s interest and social development issues, represent the considerable capacity that the project(s) may tap for disseminating information and raising awareness of the planned activities among the potentially affected communities in the project area. NGOs typically have well established 1 Vulnerable status maystem from an individual’s or group’s ethnic or social origin, color, gender, language, religion, political or other opinion, property, age, culture, literacy, sickness, physical or mental disability, poverty or economic disadvantage, and dependence on other individuals or unique natural resources. 16 | P a g e interaction with the local communities, are able to propose the most effective and culturally appropriate methods of liaising based on the local customary norms and prevailing means of communication, and possess the facilitation skills that may be utilized as part of the program’s consultations. In addition, NGOs may lend assistance in disseminating information about the proposed program(s) to the local communities, including in the remote areas (e.g., by placing information materials about the program in their offices, distributing the project information lists during events that they are organizing), and provide venues for the engagement activities such as focus-group discussions. 17 | P a g e CHAPTER FOUR 4.0 STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT PLAN The goal of the project’s Stakeholder Engagement Plan is to promote and provide means for effective, inclusive, accessible and, meaningful engagement with project- affected parties and Implementing Partners throughout the project life -cycle on issues that could potentially affect them during implementation of the various activities listed under the result areas 1, 2, and 3, the IPF and the Technical Assistant component of the program underscoring the DISREP hybrid Operation. 4.1 Engagement Methods and Tools The program will utilize various methods of engagement through the implementing agencies as part of their continuous interaction with the stakeholders. For the engagement process to be effective and meaningful, a range of techniques need to be applied that are specifically tailored to the identified stakeholder groups. Methods used for consulting with Government officials take the form of formal approaches often different from a format of liaising with local communities (e.g., focus group discussions, displays and visuals with a lesser emphasis on technical aspects). Table 4.1 provides the consultation methods for various stakeholder groups. Nonetheless the format of every engagement activity will meet general requirements on accessibility and ensure the participation of vulnerable individuals and women groups in project consultations with tailored techniques as stated in Table 4. 3. Particular attention will be given to the vulnerable groups to ensure that they are not denied program benefits. This will be done by focus group discussions, monitoring participation rates, undertaking beneficiary assessments, using online platforms to allow access to otherwise disadvantaged groups, and ensuring that at least 30% of participant beneficiaries across the result areas are females. Information that is communicated in advance of public consultations primarily includes an announcement thereof in the public media – local, regional and national, as well as the distribution of invitations and full details of the forthcoming meeting well in advance, including the agenda. It is crucial that this information is widely available, readily accessible, clearly outlined, and reaches all areas and segments of the stakeholders. Furthermore, the messages are targeted according to the stakeholder and issues. There are three important questions to answer when preparing messages as shown in figure 4.1 and the checklist to follow as shown in figure 4.2. 18 | P a g e Figure 4.1: Important questions for preparing a message Figure 4.2: Checklist to guide in developing clear messages The above parameters can be achieved through the following approaches: Advance public notification of an upcoming consultation meeting follows the same fundamental principles of communication. That is, it should be made available via publicly accessible locations and channels. The primary means of notification may include mass media and the dissemination of posters/ advertisements in public places. The project keeps proof of the publication (e.g., a copy of the newspaper announcement) for accountability and reporting purposes. Existing notice boards in the implementing agencies and the community-based 19 | P a g e platforms may be particularly useful for distributing the announcements. When the notifications are placed on public boards in open air, it should be remembered that the posters are exposed to weather, may be removed by by-passers or covered by other advertisements. The project’s staff will therefore maintain regular checks in order to ensure that t he notifications provided on the public boards remain in place and legible. Another critical aspect of the meeting preparation process is selecting the methods of communication that reach the potential audience with lower levels of literacy or those who are not well-versed in the technical aspects of the project. Oral communication is an option that enables the information to be readily conveyed to such persons. This includes involving the selected stakeholder representatives and institutional leaders to relay up-to-date information on the project and consultation meetings to the various target audiences. Advertising the project and the associated meetings via radio or television and making direct calls (in case fixed-line or mobile phone communication is available) is another method that allows reaching out to the remote audiences. The announcement of a public meeting or a hearing is made sufficiently in advance, thereby enabling participants to make necessary arrangements, and provides all relevant details, including date, time, location/venue and contact persons. Placement of the project materials in the public domain is also accompanied by making available a register of comments and suggestions that can be used by any member of the affected parties, other stakeholders and general public to provide their written feedback on the contents of the presented materials. As a rule, the register is made available for the entire duration of the requisite disclosure period. Where necessary, a project representative or an appointed consultant should be made available to receive and record any verbal feedback in case some stakeholders experience a difficulty with providing comments in the written form. Drafting an agenda for the consultation meeting is an opportunity to provide a clear and itemized outline of the meeting’s structure, sequence, chairpersons, a range of issues that will be discussed and a format of the discussion (e.g. presentation/ demonstration followed by a Questions & Answers – Q&A session, facilitated work in small groups, feature story and experience sharing, thematic sessions with a free speaking format enabling the mutual exchange of ideas). A clearly defined scope of issues that will be covered at the meeting gives the prospective participants an opportunity to prepare their questions and comments in advance. It is essential to allocate a sufficient amount of time for a concluding Q&A session at the end of any public meeting or a hearing. This allows the audience to convey their comments and suggestions that can subsequently be incorporated into the design of the project. Keeping a record of all public comments received during the consultations meetings enables the project’s responsible staff to initiate necessary actions, thereby enhancing the project’s overall approach taking onto consideration the stakeholders’ priorities. The recorded comments and how they have been addressed by the project becomes an appropriate material for inclusion in the project’s regular reporting to the stakeholders. As a possible option in addition to the Q&A session nearer the close of the public meeting/hearing, evaluation (feedback) forms may be distributed to participants in order to give them an opportunity to express their opinion and suggestions on the project. This is particularly 20 | P a g e helpful for capturing individual feedback from persons who may have refrained from expressing their views or concerns in public. Questions provided in the evaluation form may cover the following aspects: ➢ Participant’s name and affiliation (these items are not mandatory if the participant prefers to keep the form confidential) ➢ How did they learn about the Program and the consultation meeting? ➢ Are they generally in favour of the Program? ➢ What are their main concerns or expectations associated with the Program or the particular activity discussed at the meeting? ➢ Do they think the Program is of benefit to them and the stakeholder group they represent? ➢ Is there anything in the Program design and implementation that they would like to change or improve? ➢ Do they think that the consultation meeting has been useful in understanding the specific activities of the Program, as well as associated benefits and outcomes? What aspects of the meeting do they particularly appreciated or would recommend for improvement? Bearing in mind that some of the participants might find completion of the evaluation form challenging due to the literacy constraints or concerns about their confidentiality, the distribution of the feedback forms should always be explained that completing the form is optional. Program beneficiaries should also be assured that completion of the evaluation form is entirely voluntary and does not affect their status as beneficiaries. Some persons may be willing to express their feedback verbally and in this case a member of Project staff will be allocated to take notes. Distribution of targeted invitations to the consultation meeting or a hearing is an important element of the preparation process and is based on the list of participants that is compiled and agreed in advance of the consultation. Invitations may be sent both to certain individuals that have been specifically identified as relevant stakeholders (e.g. representatives of government ministries and agencies) and as public invitees (e.g. addressed to initiative and professional bodies, local organizations, and other public entities). Means of distributing the invitations should be appropriate to the customary methods of communication that prevail for the stakeholder. The various means of distribution that can be used includes direct mail (post); other existing public mailings, utility bills, or circulars from a local authority. All invitations that are sent can be tracked in order to determine and manage the response rate. If no response has been received, the invitation can be followed up by a telephone call or e-mail where possible. Table 4.1: Stakeholder group consultation methods STAKEHOLDER GROUP CONSULTATION METHODS Government officials • Phone / email / text messaging • One-on-one interviews • Formal meetings Local communities • Print media, text messaging and radio announcements • Public meetings • Focus group meetings • Surveys • Information Centre 21 | P a g e Vulnerable Groups • Print media, text messaging and radio announcements • Public meetings • Focus group meetings • Surveys • Information Centre Employees and managers • Phone / email / text messaging • Print media and radio announcements • Workshops • Focus group meetings • Surveys NGOs, CSOs Political Groups, • Phone / fax / email / text messaging Academia, Partnering • One-on-one interviews organizations and other interest • Focus group meetings groups • Information Centre • Press Statement NB: All consultation must take into consideration the Nigeria Center for Disease Control and World Bank COVID 19 guidelines for public meeting and consultation. 4.2 Identifying Themes to Discuss with Stakeholders An important part of the Stakeholder Engagement process is to identify themes to discuss with Stakeholders and to ensure that these themes include issues that are important to customers. Stakeholders should also be given the opportunity to highlight any other issues of importance which have not been identified by DISCO. The following list shows the themes identified to discuss with Stakeholders. 1. Keeping the lights on, Smart networks, Security of Supply a. Network reliability / Security of Supply i Frequency of power outages ii Duration of power outages iii Flexible Connections 2. Willingness to pay - test what customers most value a. The level of reliability customers expects b.Customers to identify specifically which, if any, initiatives or service improvements are valued sufficiently that they would be prepared to fund them c. Customers to identify where a reduction in service could be tolerated in exchange for a lower cost to them 3. Flexibility of Supply a. Demand i Access, e.g., timed or variable access connections ii Demand response provision b.Generation i Access, e.g., timed or variable access connections, Active Network Management Systems ii Curtailment – how could it work? iii Data required to assess project viability 4. Workforce renewal, skills & training. 22 | P a g e 5. Government legislation & Policy. 6. Vulnerability & affordability 7. Customer information & data 8. Customer awareness 9. Environment & sustainability 10. Other projects or trials that Stakeholders are aware of or any successful trials that have been transferred into ‘Business-As-Usual’ in the industry 11. Any other issues with existing DISCO Planning Standards that Stakeholders wish to highlight particularly with respect to the PIP. 12. Compliance issues on environment, health, safety, labour and targets 4.3 Description of Engagement Methods International standards increasingly emphasize the importance of a consultation being ‘free, prior and informed’, which implies an accessible and unconstrained process that is accompanied by the timely provision of relevant and understandable information. In order to fulfil this requirement, a range of consultation methods are applied. Table 4.2 describes the appropriateness of each engagement technique. A summary description of the engagement methods and techniques that will be applied by the Nigeria DISREP Program is provided in table 4.3 below. The summary presents a variety of approaches to facilitate the processes of information provision, information feedback as well as participation and consultation. An attendance list should be made available at the commencement of all engagement activities in order to record all participants who are present at the meeting. Wherever possible, attendees’ signatures should be obtained as a proof of their participation. Details of the attendees who were not initially on the list (e.g. those participating in place of somebody else, or general public) should be included in addition to those who have registered for the meeting in advance. In most cases and as a general practice, the introductory initial part of the meeting should be delivered in a format that is readily understandable to the audience of laypersons and should be free of excessive technical jargon. If necessary, preference should be given, whenever possible, to the oral and visual methods of communication (including presentations, pictorials, illustrations, graphics and animation) accompanied by hand-out materials imparting the relevant information in understandable terms rather than as text laden with technical intricacies. If a large audience is expected to attend a public meeting or a hearing, necessary arrangements will be made to ensure audibility and visibility of the presentations. This includes provision of a microphone, proper illumination, projector, places allocated for the wheelchair users, etc. The specific considerations for vulnerable persons are summarised in table 4.4. Taking records of the meeting is essential both for the purposes of transparency and the accuracy of capturing public comments. At least three ways of recording may be used, including: • Taking written minutes of the meeting by a specially assigned person or a secretary; • audio recording (e.g. by means of voice recorders); and 23 | P a g e • Photographing. The latter should be implemented with a reasonable frequency throughout the meeting, allowing notable scenes to be captured but at the same time not distracting or disturbing the audience excessively. Where feasible, a video recording may also be undertaken. Combination of these methods ensures that the course of the meeting is fully documented and that there are no significant gaps in the records which may result in some of the important comments received from the stakeholder audience being overlooked. Table 4.2: Engagement Techniques TECHNIQUE MOST APPROPRIATE APPLICATION OF TECHNIQUE Information • Establish Information Boards in each Project area community. Centre and Information Boards Correspondence • Distribute project information to government officials, organisations, by phone/email/ agencies and companies Text/Instant • Invite stakeholders to meetings messaging Print media and • Disseminate project information to large audiences, and illiterate stakeholders radio • Inform stakeholders about consultation meetings announcements One-on-one • Solicit views and opinions interviews • Enable stakeholders to speak freely and confidentially about controversial and sensitive issues • Build personal relations with stakeholders • Recording of interviews Formal meetings • Present project information to a group of stakeholders • Allow the group of stakeholders to provide their views and opinions • Build impersonal relations with high level stakeholders • Distribute technical documents • Facilitate meetings using PowerPoint presentations • Record discussions, comments/questions raised and responses Public meetings • Present project information to a large audience of stakeholders, and in particular communities • Allow the group of stakeholders to provide their views and opinions • Build relationships with local communities • Distribute non-technical project information • Facilitate meetings using PowerPoint presentations, posters, models, videos and pamphlets or project information documents • Record discussions, comments/questions raised and responses Workshops • Present project information to a group of stakeholders • Allow the group of stakeholders to provide their views and opinions • Use participatory exercises to facilitate group discussions, brainstorm issues, analyse information, and develop recommendations and strategies • Recording of responses Focus group • Allow a smaller group of between 8 and 15 people to provide their views and meetings opinions of targeted baseline information • Build relationships with local communities • Use a focus group interview guideline to facilitate discussions 24 | P a g e • Record responses Surveys • Gather opinions and views from individual stakeholders • Gather baseline data • Record data • Develop a baseline database for monitoring impacts 25 | P a g e Table 4.3: Methods/Tools for Information Provision, Feedback, Consultation and Participation Method / Tool Description and Use Contents Dissemination Method Target Groups Frequency Information Provision Distribution of Used to convey information on Printed materials present Distribution as part of consultation Government Ministries, At regular printed public the Program and regular updates illustrative and written information meetings, awareness campaigns, Departments and Agencies at intervals during materials: leaflets, on its progress to local, regional on the DISREP program including discussions and meetings with state and Federal levels Project brochures, fact sheets and national stakeholders. the PIP among others. stakeholders. All project affected parties preparation, Presented contents are concise, Conduct a workshop to develop Project interested parties Implementation clear and easy to understand by a standard messages for campaigns and Other potential stakeholders and closure layperson reader. Graphics and interventions to be used for priority pictorials are widely used to target audiences describe technical aspects and aid Conduct mass media campaigns both understanding. at national media and local stations Conduct social media campaign on (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, WhatsApp, etc). Preparing briefs for policymakers, web pages for the general public, guides for technical staff, reports or videos to local stakeholders (e.g. village committees) and project participants. Distribution of A newsletter or an update Important highlights of Program Circulation of the newsletter or update All projected affected parties Quarterly printed public circular sent out to Project achievements, announcements of sheet with a specified frequency in the All project interested parties through the life materials: stakeholders on a regular basis to planned activities, changes, and Project Area of Influence, as well as to Implementing Agencies and cycle of the newsletters/ updates maintain awareness of the overall progress. any other stakeholders that expressed Partners program Project development. their interest in receiving these Government Ministries, periodicals. Departments and Agencies Means of distribution – post, emailing, electronic subscription, delivery in person. The mailed material can be accompanied by an enclosed postage- paid comment/feedback form that a reader can fill in a return to the Project’s specified address. Printed Inserts, announcements, press Notification of forthcoming public Placement of paid information in local, All projected affected parties On advertisements in the releases, short articles or feature events or commencement of regional and national printed media, All project interested parties commencement media specific Project activities. Other potential stakeholders 26 | P a g e Method / Tool Description and Use Contents Dissemination Method Target Groups Frequency stories in the printed media – General description of the Program including those intended for general of specific newspapers and magazines and its benefits to the stakeholders. reader and specialised audience activities Arrange for outdoor advertising Radio or television Short radio programmes, video Description of the Program, Collaboration with media producers Government Ministries, 10 minutes entries materials or documentary Program development update and that operate in the region and can reach Departments and Agencies weekly updates broadcast on TV. processes. local audiences. Implementing agencies and Presentations at village level Advance announcement of the Documentary campaign at national and partners forthcoming public events or state stations on impact and success All projected affected parties commencement of specific story in local communities All project interested parties Program activities. Production of musical sting for to be Other potential stakeholders used in sponsored radio programmes Visual presentations Visually convey Project Description of the Project Presentations are widely used as part of Participants of the public On a need basis information to affected activities, processes and timeline. the public hearings and other hearings, consultations, communities and other interested Updates on Project development. consultation events with various rounds tables, focus group audiences. stakeholders. discussions and other forums Video simulation attended by Project animations stakeholders. Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies Notice/disclosure Displays of printed information Advance announcements of the Printed announcements and All projected affected parties Regularly boards on notice boards in public places. forthcoming public events, notifications are placed in visible and All project interested parties commencement of specific Project easily accessible places frequented by Other potential stakeholders activities, or changes to the the local public, including libraries, scheduled process. village cultural centres, post offices, shop, local administrations. Information Feedback Information Placement of Project-related Various Project-related materials Deposition of materials in publicly All projected affected parties Weekly update repositories information and printed materials and documentations. available places (offices of local accompanied by a in dedicated/designated locations NGOs, local administrations, libraries) feedback mechanism that also provide visitors and for the duration of a disclosure period readers with an opportunity to or permanently. Audience are also leave their comments in a given free access to a register of feedback register. comments and suggestions. Dedicated telephone Setting up a designated and Any issues that are of interest or Telephone numbers are specified on Any project stakeholder and Available all line (hotline)(toll manned telephone line that can concern to the direct project the printed materials distributed to interested parties. through the free) be used by the public to obtain project cycle 27 | P a g e Method / Tool Description and Use Contents Dissemination Method Target Groups Frequency information, make enquiries, or beneficiaries and other Project stakeholders and are mentioned provide feedback on the Project. stakeholders. during public meetings. Initially, telephone numbers of Project’s designated staff should be Project’s specialised staff can be assigned to answer and respond to the shared with the public, calls, and to direct callers to specialist particularly staff involved in experts or to offer a call-back if a stakeholder engagement, public question requires detailed relations, social and consideration. environmental protection. Internet/Digital Launch of Project website to Information about Project operator A link to the Project web-site should Project stakeholders and Available all Media promote various information and and shareholders, Project be specified on the printed materials other interested parties that through the updates on the overall Project, development updates, employment distributed to stakeholders. have access to the internet project cycle impact assessment and impact and procurement, environmental Other on-line based platforms can also resources. management process, and social aspects. be used, such as web-conferencing, procurement, employment webinar presentations, web-based opportunities, as well as on meetings, Internet surveys/polls etc. Project’s engagement activities Limitation: Not all parties/stakeholders with the public. have access to the internet, especially Web-site should have a built-in in the remote areas and in feature that allows viewers to communities. leave comments or ask questions about the Project. Website should be available in English Surveys, Interviews The use of public opinion Description of the proposed Project Soliciting participation in All project affected parties. and Questionnaires surveys, interviews and and related processes. surveys/interviews with specific questionnaires to obtain Questions targeting stakeholder stakeholder groups. stakeholder views and to perception of the Project, Administering questionnaires as part of complement the statutory process associated impacts and benefits, the household visits. of public hearings. concerns and suggestions. Feedback & A suggestion box can be used to Any questions, queries or Appropriate location for a suggestion Project affected parties, Suggestion Box encourage residents in the concerns, especially for box should be selected in a safe public especially vulnerable groups. affected communities to leave stakeholders that may have a place to make it readily accessible for written feedback and comments difficulty expressing their views the stakeholders. about the Project. and issues during public meetings. Information about the availability of Contents of the suggestion box the suggestion box should be should be checked by designated communicated as part of Project’s 28 | P a g e Method / Tool Description and Use Contents Dissemination Method Target Groups Frequency Project staff on a regular basis to regular interaction with local ensure timely collection of input stakeholders. and response/action, as necessary. Consultation & Participation Public hearings Project representatives, the Detailed information on the Wide and prior announcement of the Project affected parities On a need basis State and National affected public, authorities, activity and/or facility in question, public hearing and the relevant details, Relevant government Assembly regulatory bodies and other including a presentation and an including notifications in local, Ministries Departments and stakeholders for detailed interactive Questions & Answers regional and national mass media. Agencies. discussion on a specific activity session with the audience. Targeted invitations are sent out to NGOs and civil societies or facility that is planned by the stakeholders. Other interested parties Project and which is subject to Public disclosure of Project materials the statutory expert review. and associated impact assessment documentation in advance of the hearing. Viewers/readers of the materials are also given free access to a register of comments and suggestions that is made available during the disclosure period. Focus Group Used to facilitate discussion on Project’s specific activities and Announcements of the Forthcoming All project affected parties On a need basis Discussions and Project’s specific issues that plans, processes that require meetings are widely circulated to especially vulnerable groups; Round Table merit collective examination detailed discussion with affected participants in advance (at least two Project delivery agencies Workshops with various groups of stakeholders. weeks). DISREP employees and stakeholders. Targeted invitations are sent out to contractors stakeholders. NGOs and civil societies Implementing Agencies and Partners Relevant Government Ministries and Agencies Household visits Household-level visits can be - Description of the Project and - Visits should be conducted by Directly affected people On a need basis conducted to supplement the related solutions/impact designated staff with specified statutory process of public management measures periodicity hearings, particularly to solicit - Any questions, queries or feedback from affected people concerns, especially for and vulnerable persons who may stakeholders that may have a be unable to attend the formal difficulty expressing their views hearings 29 | P a g e Method / Tool Description and Use Contents Dissemination Method Target Groups Frequency and issues during formal community-wide meetings. Information centers Project’s designated venue for -Project-related materials, Information about the information Directly affected and field offices depositing Project related including updates of project status center/field office with open hours for communities and any other information that also offers open - Any issues that are of interest or the public, together with contact stakeholders and interested hours to the community and concern to the local communities details, is provided on the Project’s parties other members of the public, and other stakeholders. printed materials distributed to with Project staff available to stakeholders, as well as during public respond to queries or provide meetings and household visits clarifications. Site Tours Visits to project sites and Demonstration of specific Targeted invitations distributed to Local communities - Elected facilities organized for local examples of Project’s design selected audience offering an officials - Media groups - communities, authorities, and the solutions and approaches to opportunity to participate in a visit to NGOs and other initiative media to demonstrate Project managing impacts. the Project Site. groups solutions. Limitation: possible safety restrictions - Visitors are accompanied by on the site access during active the Project’s staff and specialists construction works to cover various aspects and to address questions arising from the public during the tour - Could be in conjunction with meeting 30 | P a g e Table 4.4: Consultation methods for vulnerable groups Category Method of consultation Elderly Recognize their organization and leadership, focus group meetings, assisted transport to meetings Women Additional separate focus group meetings, recognize cultural norms Youth Additional focus group meetings Minority Focus group meetings in a language of their understanding groups People with Recognize their organization and leadership, focus group meetings, Assisted Disabilities transport to meetings 4.4 Institutional Stakeholders Engagement Policy coordination at the national level is the highest level of engagement. This level comprises not only the Office of the Vice Presidential and line ministries responsible for the power sector efficiency, but it also includes donors, CSOs, and development partners. Coordination is broken down into two elements: setting up agreements on the shared goals that are to be achieved, and increasing the integration of activities of different programmes to achieve those common goals. These different aspects of coordination take place at different levels of governance: whilst goal coordination will occur at the national level by greater coherence between policies and programme design, coordination of means and activities will take place at the institutional levels through greater integration of operational/administrative activities. Finally, coordination will be required within each level of governance (horizontal coordination), as well as between the levels (vertical coordination). The framework for stakeholder engagement of the implementing agencies under the technical component is indicative in figure 4.4. below. Table 4.5 presents a variety of approaches to facilitate the processes of information provision, information feedback as well as participation and consultation within the implementing institutions and partners. 31 | P a g e Figure 4.3: Configured Coordination structures in line with the Nigeria DISREP 32 | P a g e Table 4.5: Stakeholder Engagement Among the Implementing Agencies, Partners and DISREP Coordinating Agency under the IPF AND TA components Actors Description and Use Contents Dissemination Method Target Groups Frequency Project • setting up agreements on the shared goals that are to be • Project-related materials. • Information about the info centre • All project affected parties Through the entire Implementation achieved, and increasing the integration of activities to • Any issues that are of interest or a field office with open hours • Project interests’ parties program cycle Units (PIUs), deliver the shared goals. or concern to the local for the public, together with • potential stakeholders Technical Committee • Have set objectives, milestones or reporting communities and other contact details, is provided on the and Oversight mechanisms directly related to coherence and stakeholders. Project’s printed materials Committees (see integration objectives of the DISREP vision and in • Good programme-level distributed to stakeholders, as frame work under particular the PIP. information well as during public meetings figure 4.3 • Facilitates data reporting on DLIs • The information collected at and household visits. • Vertical coordination relying on both top-down the local level (about the • Information sharing and Independent mechanisms (in terms of delegating responsibilities, • Number of beneficiaries or reporting across the DISREP is Verification Agency allocating budgets, monitoring) and bottom-up implementation effectiveness promoted through the committee (IVA) mechanisms (on feedback and reporting, as well as the for instance) that needs to meetings, and through the M&E communication of information collected at the feed into policy and planning database district/sub-district level) at the other levels. • The use of administrative tools • Coordination efforts of implementation activities which can be shared between (including the management of information, or delivery programmes of benefits) can be integrated between programmes. Non state actors, • Develop and secure clearance processes for timely • Project related information, • Community outreach / town • All project affected parties Defined regular Traditional / dissemination of program messages and materials in SEA/SH, criers, dedicated Toll free • Project interests’ parties times to coincide Community local languages and in English, where relevant, for Nondiscriminatory telephone lines, fliers and town • Other potential with local customs. Leaders timely dissemination of messages and materials and prohibition messages hall meeting adhering to NCDC stakeholders adopt relevant communication channels program impact, benefits and state applicable Covid 19 and available feedback protocol. channels National / State • getting issues on to the policy agenda, Public opinion, • Preparing briefs for • Face to face meetings • Project interests’ parties On a need basis Legislators / Cabinet generating endorsement and awareness of programmes policymakers, on • Meetings with elected officials in • Other potential Committees • Change (or no change) in policy content updates and communities surrounding stakeholders performance scorecard programme. • Meetings with officials • Press conferences • Interviews (media traditional and digital) • Social Media Strategy • Digital PR 33 | P a g e 4.5 Consultation with Stakeholders When consultation actually takes place, it should be after an extensive period of preparation, as outlined in the previous stages, and should exhibit the following characteristics. Any consultation should be: Representative: it is important that those involved in the consultation process are as representative as practicable of the full range of stakeholders affected by the DISREP Program actions, to ensure that the Program can build as meaningful relations as possible (see Section 4.5). While it may be easier to engage with the most sympathetic, organised, vocal or powerful stakeholders, consulting with minority organisations or those who are less vocal or powerful, can help to produce more representative, accurate and appropriate conclusions regarding stakeholders’ issues and mechanisms to address those issues, thus allowing the Program to more effectively and successfully respond to stakeholders. Winning the support of one or two ‘big’ stakeholders does not necessarily indicate that meaningful engagement has been achieved; not all community or environmental groups (for example) have the same view of or priority for an issue. Responsive: by providing information, analysis and proposals that respond directly to stakeholder expectations and interests already identified through the preparation phases – i.e. be stakeholder driven and focused, rather than responding to internal objectives and activities of the business, or being shaped by your organisation’s organisational behaviour Context focused: by making available information and analysis that is contextualised so that stakeholders are able to gain a detailed, holistic and complete picture of the DISREP Program and organisational motivations, culture and behaviour, and assess the relevance of each of these to the ultimately observed organisation’s action with respect to the DISREP Program. Complete: by providing appropriate background information together with the historical or analytical basis to certain decisions, thus allowing stakeholders to draw a ‘fair and reasonable’ conclusion as to why the organisation responded in a particular way to an issue. An efficient internal knowledge management system will help collate and provide this information. Realistic: in the ‘negotiation’ process with stakeholders there may be an inevitable trade off of expectations, needs and objectives, where both parties recognise that they may not ultimately achieve everything they had originally set out to accomplish. Nevertheless, this trade off in itself can be extremely positive to the overall engagement process, allowing trust to be strengthened as each side demonstrates that they can be moderate and realistic, ahead of a significant commitment in time and resources being made. As part of this process, ensure there is accurate representation of the intentions of the DISREP Program and implementing organisation, providing clarity on expectations of the ‘negotiation’ i.e. what is on the table for discussion and what is not. 4.6 Disclosure and Participation Plan Information disclosure is an important activity not just as a form of engagement but for also enabling the other engagement activities to be undertaken in an informed and participatory 34 | P a g e manner. This section outlines the process to be followed for the disclosure and participation as part of the DISREP Project implementation. It is required under ESS 10 that the Proponent will maintain and disclose as part of the environmental and social assessment, a documented record of stakeholder engagement, including a description of the stakeholders consulted, a summary of the feedback received and a brief explanation of how the feedback was taken into account, or the reasons why it was not. 4.6.1 Disclosure Mechanism The process of information disclosure can be undertaken in two ways: either voluntary disclosure or disclosure as part of the regulatory requirements (EIA requirements, public hearing). While regulatory disclosure involves the provisioning of information as required by the authorities and agencies involved in the project, voluntary disclosure refers to the process of disclosing information to the various stakeholders in a voluntary manner. This disclosure not only allows for trust to be built amongst the stakeholders through the sharing of information, but it also allows for more constructive participation in the other processes of consultation and resolution of grievances due to availability of accurate and timely information. 4.6.2 Process for Disclosure of Information As a standard practice, this SEP in English will be released for public review for the period of 21 days in accordance with Nigerian Regulatory Frameworks. Distribution of the disclosure materials will be done by making them available at venues and locations convenient for the stakeholders and places to which the public have unhindered access. Free printed copies of the SEP in English will be made accessible for the general public at the following locations: ▪ Office of the Chief of Staff ▪ Office of the Vice President ▪ Federal Ministry of Finance Budget and National Planning (FMoF); ▪ Federal Ministry of Power (MOP) ▪ Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE) ▪ Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) ▪ Eleven Distribution Companies (DISCOs) ▪ Transmission Company of Nigeria (TCN). ▪ Nigerian Electricity Management Services Agency (NEMSA). ▪ The EA Department of the Federal Ministry of Environment; and ▪ Other designated public locations to ensure wide dissemination of the materials. Electronic copies of the SEP will be placed on the website of the Bank and each implementing agencies. This will allow stakeholders with access to Internet to view information about the planned development and to initiate their involvement in the public consultation process. The website will be equipped with an online feedback feature that will enable readers to leave their comments in relation to the disclosed materials. The mechanisms which will be used for facilitating input from stakeholders will include press releases and announcements in the media, notifications of the aforementioned disclosed materials to local, regional and national NGOs, relevant professional bodies as well as other 35 | P a g e interested parties. Translation of the executive summaries in relevant local language and its posting in the designated community centres. 4.7 Timetable for Disclosure The disclosure process associated with the release of project E&S appraisal documentation, as well as the accompanying SEP will be implemented within the following timeframe: ▪ Placement of the SEP in public domain – Dates to be confirmed by DISREP Implementing Agencies ▪ 21-day disclosure period – Dates to be confirmed by DISREP Implementing Agencies ▪ Public consultation meetings with project stakeholders to discuss feedbacks and perceptions about the program – Dates to be confirmed by DISREP Implementing Agencies ▪ Addressing stakeholder feedback received on the entire disclosure package – Dates to be confirmed by DISREP Implementing Agencies. The SEP will remain in the public domain for the entire period of project development and will be updated on a regular basis as the project progresses through its various phases, in order to ensure timely identification of any new stakeholders and interested parties and their involvement in the process of collaboration with the project. The methods of engagement will also be revised periodically to maintain their effectiveness and relevance to the project’s evolving environment. The outline presented in the table below summarizes the main stakeholders of the project, types of information to be shared with stakeholder groups, as well as specific means of communication and methods of notification. Table 4.6 below provides a description of stakeholder engagement and disclosure methods recommended to be implemented during stakeholder engagement process. Table 4.6: Stakeholder Engagement and Disclosure Methods Stakeholder Group Project Information Shared Means of communication/ disclosure • Project Affected • Stakeholder Engagement Plan; • Public/Disclosure notices at Community Parties • Public Grievance Procedure; level. • Regular updates on Project • Electronic publications and press development. releases on the Project web-site. • Dissemination of hard copies at designated public locations. • Press releases in the local media. • Consultation meetings. • Information leaflets and brochures. • Separate focus group meetings with vulnerable groups, as appropriate. • Non-governmental • Stakeholder Engagement Plan; • Public notices. Organizations • Public Grievance Procedure; • Electronic publications and press • Regular updates on Project releases on the project web-site. development. • Dissemination of hard copies at designated public locations. • Press releases in the local media. • Consultation meetings. • Information leaflets and brochures. 36 | P a g e Stakeholder Group Project Information Shared Means of communication/ disclosure • Ministries, • Stakeholder Engagement Plan; • Dissemination of hard copies of the Departments and • PIP update ESSA package, and SEP at municipal Agencies • Regular updates on Project administrations. development; • Project status reports. • Additional types of Project’s • Meetings and round tables. information if required for the purposes of regulation and permitting. • Implementing • Stakeholder Engagement Plan; • Public Notices Agencies • PIP updates • Consultation Meetings • Regular updates on Project • Information leaflets and brochures. development; • Additional types of Project’s information if required for the purposes of implementation and timeline. • Related businesses • Stakeholder Engagement Plan; • Electronic publications and press and enterprises • Public Grievance Procedure; releases on the Project web-site. • Updates on Project development • Information leaflets and brochures. and tender/procurement • Procurement notifications. announcements. • Project Employees • Employee Grievance Procedure; • Staff handbook. • Updates on Project development. • Email updates covering the Project staff and personnel. • Regular meetings with the staff. • Posts on information boards in the offices and on site. • Reports, leaflets. 37 | P a g e CHAPTER FIVE 5.0 RESOURCES AND RESPONSIBILITIES 5.1 Introduction In this sub-section the proposed organizational structure and management functions for the stakeholder engagement function at DISREP are described. The management, coordination and implementation of the SEP and its integral tasks will be the responsibility of dedicated team members within participating PMU domiciled in BPE and local sub-contractors. The roles and responsibilities of the organizations are presented below in table 5.1. The Project Implementation Unit (PMU) will be responsible for the preparation and physical implementation of the DISREP Programme. Table 5.1: Organizational Roles and Responsibilities Role Responsibility / Accountability National Program • Formalise and fulfil roles and responsibilities for the effective functioning of coordination Coordinator at the at all levels and establishing institutional partnerships for coordination: PMU and dedicated • Ensure proper implementation and follow up of the SEP. team comprising of: • Development of an implementation plan across the DISREP, with explicit objectives, Research and activities and monitor able deliverables that can guide the work of both technical and Development, Project oversight committees Manager, Procurement • Provide capacity development for effective coordination: Officer, Transmission • Allocation of funding towards committee meetings at all levels and Substations • Ensure that contractor’s and DISREP employees are informed and trained on the SEP. Engineer, Social • Ensure the DISREP environmental and Occupational Health and Safety Specialist and a Development Officer Social Specialist team reports on time and with the expected and agreed points. and an Environmental • Provide resources to ensure that interests of stakeholders are represented and taken into Officer consideration during implementation of Programmes. National Program • Ensure that employees and subcontractors have in their contracts a stakeholder Coordinator & engagement/community relations management clause and they are aware and trained on the Procurement specialist. SEP. • Coordinate required SEP support and trainings for staff in coordination with environmental Social Specialist and Occupational Health and Safety Specialist and a Social Specialist team and Human Resources Manager. • Environmental and Social Development Specialist: Occupational Health As the primary interface between the Project and stakeholders, including the local and Safety Specialist, community, the Social Specialist will: • Social Specialist • Develop, implement and monitor all stakeholder engagement strategies/plans for Team the Project; • Interact with related and complementary support activities that require ad hoc or intensive stakeholder engagement • Proactively identify stakeholders, project risks and opportunities and inform the PM / senior management to ensure that the necessary planning can be done to either mitigate risk or exploit opportunities • Lead the SEP from the sponsor perspective and coordinate the results and actions to be taken with the H&S and Environmental Manager and later with the DISREP Team • Review the SEP viability with the H&S and Environmental Specialist • Manage the grievance mechanism; 38 | P a g e • Lead day-to-day implementation of the SEP and Community Grievance Mechanism, including proactively maintaining regular contact with affected communities through regular community visits to monitor opinions and provide updates on Project activities, and ensuring communication with vulnerable groups. • Produce stakeholder engagement monitoring reports and submit to National Programme Coordinator. • Supervise/monitor and coordinate activities to ensure that staff and all sub-contractors comply with the SEP. • Manage the day-to-day working, utilisation, implementation of SEP by all parties engaged on the Program. Environmental Occupational Health and Safety Specialist: • Review the SEP ensuring compliance in terms of environmental, H&S requirements and provide feedback to Social specialist. subcontracted • Comply with requirements stated under this document - Non-compliance will be treated as employees a disciplinary matter. • Provide assistance if needed to ensure compliance with this plan. • Perform assigned tasks towards meeting SEP objectives. • Communicate concerns, questions or views to their supervisor or the compliance or implementation of the SEP. • Provide data related to SEP performance/monitoring as required. The DISREP The ombudsman shall be responsible for resolving all grievances escalated to it. The Ombudsman ombudsman shall meet quarterly to review the grievance registers maintained by each implementing agency and use the same to update the grievance dashboard which shall be the compendium of all grievances raised across implementing agencies. In order to advance the DISREP Program coordinate overall procurement, perform audits, provide financial report, conduct stakeholders engagement, project disclosure and outreach and ensure availability of resources, the PIU will work collaboratively with some of the Federal and State Ministry of Finance Budget and National Planning (FMOF) and Ministry of Power (MOP) -Implementing departments and stakeholders such as (i) Purchasing, (ii) Finance, (iii) Customer Services, (iv) Technical Services Department, (v) Tender Committee, (vi) and Public Affairs Department on a needed basis. 5.1.1 External Resources In case the internal capacity resources at the project appear to be insufficient, the project will also consider engaging a reputed third party in the form of the organization familiar with the region and are acceptable to the community. The NGO would then not only serve as a link between the DISREP project and the community but as a third party in the implementation of the SEP and GRM. 5.1.2 Training The project will, from time to time assess the adequacy and capacity of the PIU team members in terms of their understanding of the SEP and GRM put in place for the project and the principles governing the same. Provisions for refresher trainings will be put in place. All parties involved on the SEP will attend a workshop that will orient everyone about the Project and appraise all individuals of responsibilities and reporting structures. 39 | P a g e 5.1.3 Financial Resources The project will ensure that the budget formulated for the purpose of the stakeholder engagement process and grievance redress is sufficient to meet the expenses of the same. In case of grievances requiring monetary compensation, the amount for the same will be provided through the dedicated escrow account set up for the project. 5.1.4 Budget The Project Implementation Unit has an adequate standing budget allocated towards the Stakeholder Engagement Program. This is a budget that, as at when necessary, will be supplemented and/or increased by other budgets related to the activities required for the SEP. Once the project has been finalised, a detailed budget for the implementation of this SEP will be provided and this will be included in the updated SEP. Annex 1 has a proposed budget line for SEP for participating entities. 40 | P a g e CHAPTER SIX 6.0 GRIEVANCE MANAGEMENT In compliance with applicable local and national laws and the World Bank’s ESS10, a project- specific mechanism is being set up to handle complaints and issues. This process would be specially designed to collect, collate, review and redress stakeholders’ concerns, complaints and grievances. This process will be carried out using dedicated communication materials (specifically, a GRM brochure or pamphlet) which will be developed to help stakeholders become familiar with the grievance redress channels and procedures as indicated in figure 6.1. This procedure is considered an important pillar of the stakeholder engagement process since it creates opportunities for DISCO, other stakeholders and communities to identify problems and discover solutions together (IFC, 2009). A grievance can be defined as “a real or imagined cause for complaint.� It may be expressed formally or informally. They are usually related to alleged or potential risks and adverse impacts associated with an operations, an alleged noncompliance with a project commitment, or to matters concerned with employment and working conditions. Figure 6.1: Grievance Mechanism flowchart 6.1 Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM) Project-affected-people and any other stakeholders may submit comments or complaints at any time by using the project’s Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM). The overall objectives of the GRM are to: 41 | P a g e • Provide a transparent process for timely identification and resolution of issues affecting the project and people, including issues related to specifics in program components. • Strengthen accountability to beneficiaries, including project affected people. The GRM will be accessible to all external project stakeholders, including affected people, community members, civil society, media, and other interested parties. Stakeholders can use the GRM to submit complaints, feedback, queries, suggestions, or even compliments related to the overall management and implementation of the program as it affects them. The GRM is intended to address issues and complaints in an efficient, timely, and cost-effective manner. The initial effort to resolve grievances to the complainant’s satisfaction will be undertaken by the participating section / unit of each DISCO. If the unit is not successful in resolving the grievance, the grievance would be escalated to the DISREP PMU’s grievance unit of the TCN and BPE as appropriate and if unsuccessful at this stage, the grievance will be escalated to the Oversight Monitoring implementing agencies at the Federal level. All grievance that cannot be resolved at that level shall be allowed to go the court of law. 6.2 Grievance Resolution Framework Information about the GRM will be publicized as part of the initial program consultations and disclosure in all the participating agencies. Brochures will be distributed during consultations and public meetings, and posters will be displayed in public places such as in government offices, project implementation unit offices, notice boards available to strategic stakeholders, etc. Information about the GRM will also be posted online at the implementing agencies’ websites. The overall grievance resolution framework will include six steps described below. The six steps demonstrate a typical grievances resolution process. • Step 1: Uptake. Project stakeholders will be able to provide feedback and report complaints through several channels such as filling up grievance forms, reporting grievances to implementing agencies, submitting grievance via email address made available by the implementing units and via the implementing institutions’ websites collection boxes stipulated for the grievance uptake. • Step 2: Sorting and processing. Each unit / department of the implementing institutions will conduct a prompt sorting and processing of all grievances. The processing will involve the internal escalation process to specific desks to review, resolve and respond to grievances raised. • Step 3: Acknowledgement and follow-up. Within seven (7) days of the date a complaint is submitted, the responsible person within the unit will communicate with the complainant and provide information on the likely course of action and the anticipated timeframe for resolution of the complaint. The information provided to complainant would also include, if required, the likely procedure if complaints had to be escalated outside the unit and the estimated timeline for each stage. • Step 4: Verification, investigation and action. This step involves gathering information about the grievance to determine the facts surrounding the issue and verifying the complaint’s validity, and then developing a proposed resolution. It is expected that many 42 | P a g e or most grievances would be resolved at this stage. All activities taken during this and the other steps will be fully documented, and any resolution logged in the register. o Step 5: Monitoring and evaluation. Monitoring refers to the process of tracking grievances and assessing the progression toward resolution. Each implementing agency would develop and maintaining a grievance register and maintain records of all steps taken to resolve grievances or otherwise respond to feedback and questions. o Step 6: Providing Feedback. This step involves informing those who have raised complaints, concerns or grievances the resolutions to the issues they have raised. Whenever possible, complainants should be informed of the proposed resolution in person, which gives them the opportunity ask follow-up questions which could be answered on the spot for total resolve. If the complainant is not satisfied with the resolution, he or she will be informed of further options, which would include pursuing remedies through the World Bank, as described below, or through a court of competent jurisdiction. 6.3 DISREP Grievance Escalation Process GRM Stage One - Specific Implementing DISCO Department Level Resolution This stage represents the grievances collection points by specific units of the DISCO implementing agencies. As stated in the six steps framework above, this stage would involve the uptake; collation, sorting and processing; acknowledgement and the resolve as described in stage 4 – verification, investigation and action. All implementing agencies would attempt a full resolve of grievances at this stage as much as practical. A typical example of this stage process is each grievance committee at each unit of the implementing agency activating steps 1 to 4 as stated above to respond to all grievances raised to the institution. The grievance committee at each unit of implementing agencies would deploy all effort as much as practical at this stage to ensure all grievances raised to it has been adequately resolved to the satisfaction of all parties involved. Should the complainant not be satisfied at stage one, the grievances shall be escalated to stage two. GRM Stage Two – TCN AND BPE Implementing Agency Level Resolution The central platform for receiving, sorting and assigning stage two grievance will be located in the respective TCN AND BPE Implementing Agency. Once received, sorted and processed at State Implementing Agency, grievances related to different implementing agencies will be forwarded to the respective agencies. The stage two is a grievance redress platform led by the main implementing agencies. Every implementing agency would establish a grievance management unit which would deal with all the grievances escalated to it from the different units. These implementing agencies would apply the stage four as mentioned under the framework to address and resolve all grievances promptly and communicate the feedback to the complainants. Any complaints or grievances not resolved at this stage shall be escalated to the DISREP Ombudsman. GRM Stage Three – DISREP Ombudsman Level Resolution (from the Oversight Monitoring Agencies) 43 | P a g e The DISREP Ombudsman shall be formed of key officers from all the Oversight Monitoring implementing agencies. The ombudsman shall be responsible for resolving all grievances escalated to it. The ombudsman shall meet quarterly to review the grievance registers maintained by each implementing agency and use the same to update the grievance dashboard which shall be the compendium of all grievances raised across implementing agencies. 6.4 Grievance logs Each implementing agency shall establish a grievance uptake point. • Individual reference number • Name of the person submitting the complaint, question, or other feedback, address and/or contact information (unless the complaint has been submitted anonymously) • Details of the complaint, feedback, or question/her location and details of his / her complaint. • Date of the complaint. • Name of person assigned to deal with the complaint (acknowledge to the complainant, investigate, propose resolutions, etc.) • Details of proposed resolution, including person(s) who will be responsible for authorizing and implementing any corrective actions that are part of the proposed resolution. • Date when proposed resolution was communicated to the complainant (unless anonymous). • Date when the complainant acknowledged, in writing if possible, being informed of the proposed resolution. • Details of whether the complainant was satisfied with the resolution, and whether the complaint can be closed out • If necessary, details of escalation procedure • Date when the resolution is implemented (if any). 6.5 Screening, Prioritization and Assignment Complaints received under the program will be handled as is reasonably practicable, depending on the nature and complexity of the grievance. To expedite the screening process, all incoming grievances will be classified, according to their nature based on the following categories: • G0: Request for information not directly related to the Project • G1: Questions / Doubts • G2: Requests / Petitions • G3: Complaints Following this preliminary assessment, DISREP will organize the process of review, validation and (if necessary) investigation of each grievance received, acknowledged and registered. Grievances will be prioritized according to their severity and complexity level. Table 6.2 shows the priority levels that will be applied: 44 | P a g e Table 6.1: Grievance priority classification Priority Level Description Examples High Concern, claim or grievance involving • Group complaints; stakeholders of high priority, and: • Issues involving third parties • Reports a breach to human rights (e.g. social, environmental • Relates to a legal non-compliance impacts); • Pose a short-term risk to the project continuity, Medium • Concern, claim or grievance from • Individual complaints; stakeholders (individual or as a group) • Issues involving other that could impact the project reputation or departments within DISREP compromise its development at medium program term. Low • Concern, claim or grievance regarding Lack of information. lack of information or unclear information provided. 6.6 Monitoring and reporting on grievances Day-to-day implementation of the GRM and reporting to the World Bank will be the responsibility of the Program Coordinator. To ensure management oversight of grievance handling, the –Federal Implementing Agency of DISREP (BPE) will be responsible for monitoring the overall process, including verification that agreed resolutions are actually implemented. 6.7 World Bank Grievance Redress System Communities and individuals who believe that they are adversely affected by a project supported by the World Bank may also complain directly to the Bank through the Bank’s Grievance Redress Service (GRS) (http://projects-beta.worldbank.org/en/projects- operations/products-and-services/grievance-redress-service). A complaint may be submitted in English, or in local languages, although additional processing time will be needed for complaints that are not in English. A complaint can be submitted to the Bank GRS through the following channels: • By email: grievances@worldbank.org • By fax: +1.202.614.7313 • By mail: The World Bank, Grievance Redress Service, MSN MC10-1018, 1818 H Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20433, USA • Through the World Bank Nigeria Country Office in Abuja: 102 Yakubu Gowon Crescent, Asokoro , Abuja The complaint must clearly state the adverse impact(s) allegedly caused or likely to be caused by the Bank-supported project. This should be supported by available documentation and 45 | P a g e correspondence to the extent possible. The complainant may also indicate the desired outcome of the complaint. Finally, the complaint should identify the complainant(s) or assigned representative/s, and provide contact details. Complaints submitted via the GRS are promptly reviewed to allow quick attention to project-related concerns. In addition, project-affected communities and individuals may submit complaints to the World Bank’s independent Inspection Panel, which will then determine whether harm occurred, or could occur, as a result of the World Bank’s non-compliance with its policies and procedures. Complaints may be submitted to the Inspection Panel at any time after concerns have been brought directly to the World Bank’s attention, and after Bank Management has been given an opportunity to respond. Information on how to submit complaints to the World Bank Inspection Panel may be found at www.inspectionpanel.org. 46 | P a g e CHAPTER SEVEN 7.0 MONITORING AND REPORTING The Stakeholder Engagement Plan will be periodically revised and updated as necessary in the course of the Nigeria DISREP program implementation in order to ensure that the information presented herein is consistent and is the most recent, and that the identified stakeholders and methods of engagement remain appropriate and effective in relation to the project context and specific stages of the implementation. Any major changes to the project related activities and to its schedule will be duly reflected in the SEP. This includes regular refreshers to stakeholders about the grievance mechanism and related processes and regular Project Monitoring reports and reporting to the different stakeholders as appropriate. 7.1 Reporting Monitoring of the stakeholder engagement process allows the efficacy of the process to be evaluated. Specifically, by identifying key performance indicators that reflect the objectives of the SEP and the specific actions and timings, it is possible to both monitor and evaluate the process undertaken. Information on public engagement activities undertaken by the Project during the year may be conveyed to the stakeholders in two possible ways: • During the engagement activities: short-term monitoring to allow for adjustments/improvements to be made during engagement; and • Following completion of all engagement activities: review of outputs at the end of engagement to evaluate the effectiveness of the SEP as implemented. A series of key performance indicators for each stakeholder engagement stage have been developed. Table 7.1 shows the indicators, and performance against the indicators will show successful completion of engagement tasks. Table 7.1: Key Performance Indicators by Project phase Project Phase Key activities Indicator Preparatory & ▪ Preliminary Stakeholder ▪ Stakeholder engagement reports & records of Planning phase for engagement on project designs meetings DISREP and anticipated impacts. ▪ Number of public hearings, consultation meetings and other public discussions/forums ▪ Notification on multi-media conducted within a reporting period (e.g. (posters, radio, TV, DISREP monthly, quarterly, or annually); website ▪ Frequency of public engagement activities; ▪ Number of notifications & mode of ▪ Official correspondence communication ▪ Number of letters/emails sent Project ▪ Project Notices issued ▪ Newspaper clippings, updates on the DISREP Implementation website ▪ Stakeholders Mapping ▪ Geographical coverage of public engagement activities – number of locations and communities covered by the consultation process; 47 | P a g e ▪ Number and details of vulnerable individuals involved in consultation meetings; ▪ Number of updated versions - at least one updated version within the project cycle Recorded Grievances in the GRM ▪ Number of public grievances received within a reporting period (e.g. monthly, quarterly, or annually) and number of those resolved within the prescribed timeline; ▪ Type of public grievances received; ▪ All grievances addressed as per grievance procedure ▪ Pending grievances & suggested resolutions ▪ SEP Implementation ▪ SEP Annual reports ▪ Number of public gatherings & records (topics ▪ Public gatherings discussed) ▪ Number of press materials published/broadcasted in the local, regional, and national media; ▪ Official correspondence ▪ Number of letters/emails sent ▪ Information Disclosure and ▪ % of received communications being answered External through the website ▪ Communication ▪ % of received communications being answered through the email ▪ % of answered calls through the telephone exchange. Project Completion SEP implementation Project ▪ SEP Final Report 7.2 Stakeholder Involvement in Project Monitoring The Involvement of project-affected stakeholders in the monitoring process will promote transparency and support in addressing stakeholder concerns. Stakeholder participation in monitoring can also empower communities as it enables them to have a role in addressing Project-related issues that affect their lives. This, in turn, strengthens relationships between the Project and its stakeholders. Stakeholder involvement in monitoring of this Project will include the following: • Involvement of affected stakeholders when selecting sampling methods for any social surveys or external impact assessments, and in the analysis of results. Training will be conducted where needed to build capacities. • Observations of monitoring and audit activities by affected parties. • Grievance follow-up meetings and calls with affected stakeholders. 7.3 Ongoing Reporting to Stakeholders DISREP will produce reports for use by project stakeholders at stipulated intervals and through specified mechanisms. Reports from various departments will be reviewed and appropriate information presented in synthesized reports to various stakeholders. The modes of reporting shall be as outlined below: 48 | P a g e Table 7.2: Outline of Reports to Stakeholders Report Content Stakeholder Frequency Technical reports (Financial, Technical Evaluation of the Regulatory authorities At agreed timeline Occupational Safety and Programmes status Health Report, Environmental and Social Audit, Personnel) Progress Update Reports and • Project development activities, • Federal and State Quarterly, Six Annual report • challenges and opportunities, Implementing months after • local workers hiring status Agencies effectiveness date • World Bank and other agreed timeline Media release Main Project milestones Local media (and At agreed timeline national media as appropriate) 7.4 Training DISREP implementing agencies will arrange community & stakeholder engagement overview, principles, tools and goals associated with the implementation of this SEP that will be provided to the members of staff who, due to their professional duties, may be involved in interactions with the external public, as well as to the senior management. Specialized training will also be provided to the staff appointed to deal with stakeholder grievances as per the Public Grievance Procedure. Annex 3 has indicative outline for the proposed stakeholder engagement training. Project contractors and selected representatives will also receive necessary instructions for the Grievance Procedure. 49 | P a g e ANNEXES ANNEX 1: Proposed Budget Line Items for Stakeholder Engagement S/No. Item 1. Stakeholder Engagement in programme locations 2 Virtual online meetings/ internet with project stakeholders and state counterparts 3. Town-hall meetings in Locations where DISREP platform Project exist 4. 2-Day Primary Stakeholders retreat 5, Subsidiary staffing of the social unit (Salary) 6. Stakeholder consultative Forum 7 Production of National Jingles for Television and Radio 8 Production of Newsletter Programme information kit 10 Weekly Sponsored radio Programme 11 Purchase of audio visual and Public Address systems 12 Purchase of camera 13 Purchase of publicity vans Registration & Insurance 14 Maintenance of Vehicles & Fuelling 15. Miscellaneous (Printing etc.) 16 Toll free number 17 Purchase of face mask, hand sanitizer / sanitation facilities and temperature testing equipment’s. ANNEX 2: NERC Customer Classification Index Customer Description Remarks Classification 1 Residential R1 Life-Line (50 kWh) Single and 3phase A consumer who uses his premises exclusively as a R2 residence - house, flat or multi-storied house where LV Maximum people reside. R3 Demand HV Maximum R4 Demand (11/33 KV) 2 Commercial Single and 3phase C1 A consumer who uses his premises for any purpose LV Maximum other than exclusively as a residence or as a factory C2 Demand for manufacturing goods. HV Maximum C3 Demand(11/33 KV) 50 | P a g e 5 Industrial Single and 3phase D1 A consumer who uses his premises for manufacturing LV Maximum D2 goods including welding and ironmongery. Demand HV maximum D3 Demand (11/33 KV) 4 Special Single and 3 Phase Customers such as agriculture (agro-allied A1 enterprises involving processing are excluded), water LV Maximum boards, religious houses, Government and teaching A2 Demand hospitals, Government research institutes and HV Maximum educational establishments. A3 Demand (11/33 KV) 5 Street Lighting Single and 3phase S1 51 | P a g e ANNEX 3: PROPOSED TRAINING OUTLINE Community & Stakeholder Engagement Overview • Setting the scene – The theory of change, • How to Identify Stakeholders Through Impact Zoning? • Core Values for the Practice of Public Participation • What Makes Communities “Trust� a Company? • Tips for Engaging when Authorities do not Allow Communities to Organize Themselves • References on Participatory Methods and Techniques • References on Gender and Engagement. • Using Software Programs to Track Stakeholder Consultation and Commitments. • A brief history of community/stakeholder engagement processes on existing project or participating state • Politics and the roles of community/stakeholder engagement • Changing emphasis in policy development – Accountability, transparency and involvement of social license to operate • Increasing stakeholder consultation expectations Community Engagement Principles • Levels and principles of community/stakeholder engagement • The importance of early identification of the purpose and function of community/stakeholder engagement • Different levels of community/stakeholder engagement – ranging from information to participation to partnership • Is there a difference between community engagement and stakeholder engagement? Overview & Introduction • Current skills inventory for community/stakeholder engagement • Good and bad experiences of community/stakeholder engagement • Identification of current community/stakeholder engagement process focus areas Practical Case Examinations • At the beginning of the course, participants will put forward examples from their own work situations as possible case studies • Participants will be able to choose to work on their own consultation plan relevant to their project or participate in group selected most applicable case studies to work through using a practical set of principles and approaches for stakeholder engagement and the tools they have gained through the course Effective community engagement • The community engagement approach framework – an overview • How the framework provides a structure for planning • The links between different sections of the framework 52 | P a g e • How to use the framework in the work situation • stakeholder engagement strategy • Create a human rights based model of stakeholder consultation underpinned by community engagement international best practice and regulatory compliance Engagement Levels, Goals & Communication Levels • What type of engagement is needed? – the process of making decisions depending on your desired outcomes • Clarifying what is to be achieved by community/stakeholder engagement – intra-organisational consultation • Ensuring that the community/stakeholder engagement goals are clearly articulated • Working up and down within in an organisation to ensure agreement on these goals Risk Assessments & Conflict Management • Assessing risks and benefits • Identifying different risk categories • Likelihood of conflict in the absence of community/stakeholder engagement • Possible impact of conflict • Assessment of likelihood of conflict arising during community/stakeholder engagement • Use of a Risk Assessment Tool for community/stakeholder engagement • Managing risks – which risks can be avoided and which must be managed • Planning the community/stakeholder engagement process to avoid unnecessary conflict • Where conflict is inevitable, how to ensure it is managed to achieve the most useful outcomes Stakeholder Management and consultation • Develop, plan, implement, review and benchmark stakeholder and community engagement programs • Tailor engagement approaches to respond to diversity and mitigating emerging conflict • Case study examples will be discussed, based on real life community/stakeholder engagement processes Resource Allocation & Budgeting • A standardised budget will be customised for the needs of individual participants and the organisational budgets. It will include all the line items for o consideration in a community/ stakeholder engagement process o Identifying social investment strategy opportunities which enhance community relationships o Influencing organisational stakeholder consultation change Putting it all Together & Communication Tools • Communicating clearly – key points • Communicating via different media – visual, verbal, written • Using different tools – pamphlets, papers, internet, email, fax, face to face • What not to do – examples of bad communication and what effect that has on recipients 53 | P a g e • Building skills in working with a diversity of people and groups • When and how to employ professionals/consultants Review • Review – identification of key learning points for each individual participant • What will this mean for your first week back at work? • What strategies will you use to influence organisational stakeholder consultation change? ANNEX 4: POINTS OF CONTACT Information on the project and future stakeholder engagement programs will available on the project’s website and will be posted on information boards in the respective project implementation Units The point of contact(s) regarding the stakeholder engagement program are: Federal Ministry of Finance Description Contact details to be determined (add the contact details once available) Name and position Address: Federal Ministry of Finance, Abuja E-mail: Telephone: To be provided Federal Ministry of Power and Steel/ NERC Description Contact details Name and position Address: Federal Ministry of Power/ NERC E-mail: Telephone: To be provided Federal Ministry of Environment Description Contact details Name and position Address: E-mail: Telephone: To be provided Implementing Agency of DISREP (BPE) 54 | P a g e Description Contact details Name and position Address: E-mail: Telephone: To be provided DISCOs Description Contact details Name and position Address: E-mail: Telephone: To be provided 55 | P a g e