Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democratic rule is a significant milestone, especially when you consider the democratic backsliding and military interventions rising within the continent. It is a testament to the resilience and commitment of Nigerians to democratic governance, even in the face of numerous challenges. From the return to civilian rule in 1999 to date, we have witnessed peaceful transitions of power, an increasingly assertive electorate, and a growing ecosystem of civic actors shaping national discourse and demanding accountability.
Yes, the democratic architecture has endured, but the quality of the structures needs strengthening for some and overhauling for others. Citizens are also far from satisfied with the quality of leadership and the dividends (or lack of) that have been produced. Poor governance, weak institutions, electoral malpractice, corruption, and insecurity continue to erode public trust in democracy. The quality of life for the average Nigerian has not kept pace with the promises of democratic rule.
For us at Yiaga Africa, this Democracy Day, we’re reflecting not just on our progress as a country but much more on our untapped potential. Being at the frontline of building a people-driven, democratic, and developed Africa, we understand that democracy goes beyond voting. It’s about accountable leadership, inclusive policies, and responsive governance. This is why we are creating an opportunity for Nigerians to add their voice to shaping Nigeria’s democracy. Yiaga Africa is conducting a quick survey to understand how Nigerians engage with democracy and identify the gaps. Take the survey here https://bit.ly/2025Democracy
To Our Leaders – President, Governors, LG Chairmen (and Persons in Any Capacity of Leadership):
You were elected to serve, not to rule, and true service is marked by vision, competence, diligence, sacrifice, inclusion, humility, accountability, and it is devoid of impunity. This Democracy Day, amid all the plans you have in place, there is an opportunity to reflect on your actions thus far, whether they reflect the true position of a leader serving their people. Consider the mandate and sacred duty of upholding the constitution, serving the public interest, and expanding opportunities for all citizens, especially young people, women, and marginalised communities.
Regardless of your position or pedigree, the baseline responsibility and expectation remain the same. In specifics, local government chairpersons must strengthen grassroots governance and service delivery. You are the first contact and service provider for the people, and it is your actions (or inactions) that define how the government is viewed by citizens. Governors should prioritise economic inclusion, education, and security. Instead of positioning for second terms or plotting your next move, invest in leaving a resounding legacy. Dare to move beyond a performative and short-sighted approach to governance. The dividends of democracy should become transformative, not palliative, transformational rather than transactional. True governance is seen in the systems that are built to outlive political cycles.
To the President, courageous leadership must be tempered with compassion. Policies, however well-intentioned, must be matched with targeted social protection, clear communication, and inclusive consultation. Where leadership is not anchored in empathy, it risks alienating the people, eroding the legitimacy leaders seek to uphold and can be seen as punitive. Bold decisions should both pursue national interest and protect the human dignity of every citizen affected by change. Nigeria needs visible empathy, responsive governance, and opportunities to live with dignity.
To the People:
Democracy is not a spectator sport. It thrives when citizens are active, informed, and engaged. Demand transparency. Hold leaders accountable. Participate in town halls, budget hearings, and policy discussions. Know and understand what is happening within democratic coffers beyond sensationalism. Register to vote. Show up at the polls, and stay involved beyond elections. Civic vigilance is the oxygen that keeps democracy alive.
And if you can spare 5 minutes to take the survey linked here, you will be adding your voice to shape Nigeria’s future. Yiaga Africa is conducting a quick survey to understand how Nigerians engage with democracy and where the gaps are. Tell us:
- If you feel represented
- The barriers that stop you from engaging
- And more
You can take the survey here https://bit.ly/2025Democracy
Going Forward
As the journey to a better democratic experience continues, we hope that leaders will:
- Prioritise electoral reforms like early voting, diaspora voting, and inclusive representation.
- Ensure the timely, transparent implementation and communication of public budgets, deliver measurable results, strengthen oversight mechanisms, and institutionalise citizen participation at all levels of governance.
- Uphold the rule of law and protect civic space.
As citizens, the intensity of our dissatisfaction must be matched with a greater intensity to catalyse change. If we do this, we will have:
- Constructive engagement with governance processes, not just on social media but in physical spaces where decisions are made.
- The building of solidarity across differences to push for collective action.
- The embracing of civic education as a tool of empowerment.
Finally, as citizens and leaders alike, we must remember that democracy is a journey, not a destination. The last 26 years have shown us both the promise and the peril of this path. If Nigeria must succeed, we must recommit to building a democracy that works for everyone, not just the privileged few.
Jennifer Dafwat is the Media and Communication Officer at Yiaga Africa, where she leads strategic communication initiatives to promote democratic governance and civic participation. With a strong background in media relations and public engagement, Jennifer plays a key role in shaping the organization’s public image and amplifying its impact across various platforms.
