In an effort to ensure that democracy in Nigeria grows and endures for future generations, President Bola Tinubu has urged Nigerian leaders to recommit to the principles of inclusivity, accountability, and transparency.
It is time for all Nigerians to take part in “building a nation where every voice is heard, where every potential is realised, and where every citizen is empowered to contribute to the collective good,” according to President Tinubu, following 25 years of continuous democracy.
Speaking on Tuesday at the 2024 Democracy Day Lecture at the Presidential Villa’s Banquet Hall in Abuja, the President stated that every Nigerian, regardless of background, should be given the opportunity to contribute to the shared destiny of the country at this stage of its democratic journey.
“This is an invitation for each of us to participate in building a nation where every voice is heard, where every potential is realised, and where every citizen is empowered to contribute to the collective good.”
“President Tinubu stated that the country’s ability to maintain democracy for 25 years, the longest period in its history, demonstrates “the enduring sacrifices of several generations of patriots.”
Passing his verdict on the democratic journey thus far, the President declared that 25 years was enough time to determine the effectiveness of any experiment, stating, “Our democratic experience, despite the lows and highs, is a telling referendum on our aspiration to build a nation that serves the interests of all, a federation that has not conspired against any benign group.
“We’re here because the alternative is to descend into dystopia. Today is an opportunity to reflect on our trip thus far. The tragedies that Nigeria has endured in order to establish this democracy, the fourth of such experiments, must inspire each of us to do our part to honour the labour of our founding fathers and mothers, as well as to remind ourselves of the principles that drove their determination to build for us a diverse nation that has defied the pessimism of detached agents of anarchy,” he added.
Noting that it is more than just a day of memory, Tinubu marked that it is a call to action, adding that young and capable Nigerians, particularly those who are patriotic and imaginative, must all be involved in developing a succession plan that secures the desired future.
“It is through their energy, ingenuity, and devotion that we will develop a Nigeria that is robust to future difficulties. Let us therefore commit to creating an atmosphere in which every Nigerian, regardless of background, has the opportunity to contribute to our common destiny,” the President added. Earlier, Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, emphasised the sacrifices made by heroes and heroines fighting for democracy, with many paying the ultimate price.
Tinubu praised Nigerians for their determination to defend democratic values in the face of adversity. “Our democratic road is one of optimism, as reversal is never an option. Today is an opportunity to recognise our people’s resilience in believing in democracy,” Akume said. In his keynote address, former Katsina State Governor Aminu Bello Masari urged politicians to focus residents’ concerns.
Tinubu
“Democracy is about people-led governance, not just politicians. We must thus prioritise the needs of the population over our own. We must also work to improve our democratic practices. We must totally embrace the culture of democracy. “We need good winners and good losers,” he said.
