The catalysts NiCO2O4 were prepared by co-precipitation and surfactant approach. These catalysts were characterized by crystal size, BET surface area, pore volume, average pore size, XRD and SEM. The catalytic activity of co-precipitated NiO, CoO, NiCo2O4 and surfactant-assisted NiCo2O4 was tested for the reduction of 4-Chloro-nitrobenzene using variety of hydrogen donor and basic promoters. The reaction was carried out at different temperatures and catalysts concentrations. Reusability, recyclability of the catalyst and reductions of variety of nitro arenes was also studied. (c) 2006 Published by Elsevier B.V.