Nancy Saiboh Ndi (often referred to as Nancy Saiboh) is a distinguished Cameroonian civic leader, legal professional, and governance advocate. As the Executive Director of Actions for Development and Empowerment (ADE), she has become a central figure in the movement to bring transparency, accountability, and youth voices to the forefront of African governance.
A Legal Mind for Social Justice
Nancy’s journey is rooted in a background in Law, which she utilizes as a tool for community advocacy rather than just courtroom litigation. Growing up in Yaoundé, she witnessed firsthand how everyday injustices—such as the lack of basic infrastructure or missed social rights—often stemmed from a lack of public knowledge on how to hold officials accountable.
She decided to bridge this gap by using her legal expertise to empower marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, to understand their rights and the mechanics of public finance.
Impact as a Youth Leader
Nancy Saiboh’s impact is defined by her “follow-the-money” approach to civic engagement. She doesn’t just advocate for change; she tracks the data that makes change possible.
1. Executive Leadership at ADE
Under her leadership, Actions for Development and Empowerment (ADE) has become a trailblazing youth-led organization in Cameroon.
- Grassroots Mobilization: ADE implements initiatives focused on human rights education, democratic governance, and civic technology.
- Environmental Advocacy: Nancy was selected as the Official Voice of the Ambassadors for Green Earth Action Day 2025, a role where she mobilizes African youth for climate justice and environmental sustainability.
2. Follow The Money (FTM) Cameroon
Perhaps her most tangible impact comes from her role as the Country Lead for Follow the Money Cameroon.
- Public Finance Tracking: She leads a network of youth and civil society actors who track government spending on health, education, and infrastructure.
- Accountability in Action: By ensuring that funds meant for community development actually reach their destination, she has saved countless public resources from mismanagement.
3. Civic Engagement Awards
Her tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2024, she was honoured with the Youth Civic Engagement Award by the Cameroon National Youth Council. This award recognized her role in cultivating a culture where young people feel empowered to participate in democratic processes rather than remaining passive observers.
Philosophy: The Human Side of the Law
Nancy often describes herself as a “Legal Millennial,” representing a generation of lawyers who prioritize community impact over corporate prestige. She believes that the law is only as strong as the people’s ability to use it.
“Your path does not have to look like anyone else’s. Whether you end up in a courtroom or on the frontlines of community advocacy, your work matters.” — Ndi Nancy Saiboh
Legacy and Continental Influence
Nancy Saiboh is now a sought-after facilitator across the continent, working with institutions like the African Development Bank and Elections Cameroon (ELECAM). By integrating Civic Tech (digital tools for governance) with traditional grassroots organizing, she is ensuring that the youth of Cameroon are equipped to build a future defined by transparency and equity.
She remains a testament to the idea that the most powerful weapon against corruption is an informed and organized youth population.
