Call for Applications to the Digital Rights Litigation Surgery (DRLS) is open now!
The Digital Rights Litigation Surgery (DRLS) is a professional development and capacity-building programme by the Digicivic Initiative, designed to strengthen legal responses to digital rights violations in Nigeria. The programme focuses on equipping legal practitioners with the practical skills, legal strategies, and advocacy tools needed to advance public-interest litigation in the rapidly evolving digital space.
DRLS is a practice-oriented initiative that addresses key areas such as freedom of expression, civic space protection, data protection, and technology-enabled human rights violations. Rather than relying solely on theory, the programme emphasizes hands-on learning through case analysis, real-world legal scenarios, collaborative discussions, and structured post-training engagement. Its goal is to build a committed pool of lawyers capable of responding effectively to digital rights abuses and contributing meaningfully to strategic litigation efforts in Nigeria.
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The programme is delivered by the Digicivic Initiative, a non-governmental organization formally registered as Advocates for the Promotion of Digital Rights and Civic Interactions Initiative. The organization operates with a strong public-interest mandate, advocating for the protection of digital rights and the expansion of civic space. Digicivic Initiative works to raise awareness, empower individuals to safeguard their digital rights within existing legal frameworks, and collaborate with civil society actors and industry experts to promote accountable and rights-respecting digital ecosystems.
The primary purpose of the Digital Rights Litigation Surgery is to strengthen the capacity of Nigerian lawyers to engage in strategic digital rights litigation and legal advocacy. It aims to develop practical competencies for handling complex cases involving technology, media, data protection, and civic freedoms, while also expanding a nationwide network of pro bono lawyers dedicated to public-interest digital rights work.
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Participants are expected to actively engage during the training phase and commit to post-programme pro bono litigation or legal support in collaboration with Digicivic Initiative. Senior practitioners may also contribute through mentorship and strategic guidance for early-career lawyers. Ultimately, the programme seeks to enhance legal capacity, strengthen collaboration between lawyers and civil society organizations, and improve access to justice for individuals and communities affected by digital rights violations in Nigeria.
Location:
NigeriaBenefits
- Practical, hands-on training in digital rights litigation and strategic case development
- Exposure to real digital rights and technology-related legal cases in Nigeria
- Engagement with experienced litigators, advocates, and civil society actors
- Inclusion in a growing national network of digital rights and public-interest lawyers
- Opportunities for continued post-training litigation and advocacy collaboration
Eligibilities
- Qualified legal practitioners called to the Nigerian Bar
- Demonstrated interest or experience in digital rights, human rights, technology law, media law, or data protection
- Strong commitment to pro bono legal work and public-interest litigation
- Willingness to collaborate with civil society and affected communities
Application Process
- Submit an application within the open call period
- Applications are reviewed based on eligibility, experience, and demonstrated commitment to digital rights
- Selected participants are invited to participate in training and post-programme engagement activities
Application Deadline: February 25, 2026 (9 Days Remaining)
Apply nowOfficial link
