25 Years and The Task Ahead

BY AISHA SHUAIBU

As Nigeria commemorates a quarter-century of unbroken democracy, it is essential to reflect on our journey and consider the path ahead. This milestone is particularly significant in the context of the military takeovers in Sudan, Gabon, Niger, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Guinea, highlighting Nigeria’s resilience and commitment to its democratic principles. The stability of our democracy, despite a history of military coups, stand as a testament to our collective dedication to democratic governance.

In contrast to the absence of social media 25 years ago, today’s digital landscape significantly influences democracy. Platforms like Twitter/X, Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok have revolutionized how information is disseminated, enabling real-time communication between the government and the populace. This transformation has made governance more transparent and accountable, as citizens now have a platform to voice their concerns and hold leaders accountable. The #EndSARS movement is a prime example of how social media can galvanize youth and push for political change. The recent debates on the need to ban social media in Nigeria demonstrates the widened generational gap that exists in terms of the perception of the pros and cons of using social media in a stable democratic society.

The increased participation of youth in government at the local and federal level is also a testament to the democratic growth in Nigeria, a development that is still some-what unwelcomed by the older political class. Young people are no longer passive observers but active participants in the political process as voter participation and social movements are actively promoted and advocated for online. This shift is crucial for the future of our democracy, as it ensures that the voices of the younger generation are heard and considered in policymaking. The “Not Too Young to Run” bill, led by the Youth Initiative for Advocacy, Growth and Advancement (YIAGA) and passed in 2018, is a significant milestone that lowered the age limit for running for elective positions, thus encouraging leadership from younger and sharper, more capable, innovative minds.

The quality of life of citizens is often a more critical measure of a country’s success than the mere form of government. In a 2023 Al Jazeera article on democracy in Africa, President Paul Kagame was said to have gained the support of 95.05% of Rwandan voters in his first presidential election in 2003. Despite criticisms of authoritarianism, the quality of life of Rwandans, under Kagame’s leadership has improved significantly as the country has been described as “Africa’s success story”. With an increased life expectancy of its citizens, the Rwandan economy has also prioritised the development of its tourism sector, which makes up 11% of the country’s GDP. This raises important questions about the trade-offs between democratic freedoms and developmental outcomes.

In countries such as Togo, Cote d’Ivoire and Guinea, governments have manipulated their constitutions to extend the tenures of their presidents, which many have criticized as a “constitutional coup” which undermines the principles of democracy. This demonstrates that ‘democratic rule’ does not always constitute ‘good governance’. Similarly, other West African countries, despite being democracies, struggle with issues like poverty, corruption, and inadequate public services. This disparity underscores the need for a government that prioritizes the well-being of its citizens over the ‘appearance’ of democratic values.

Past African leaders have often emphasised the essence of good governance through profound statements. Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” This quote resonates with Nigeria’s youth, who recognize that quality education is vital for personal and national development. Similarly, Kwame Nkrumah’s assertion that “the independence of Ghana is meaningless unless it is linked with the total liberation of Africa”, highlights the interconnectedness of African nations in their democratic pursuits.  Nigeria’s commitment to democracy is further demonstrated by its coupe-free status in recent years, despite a tumultuous history and the recent return of authoritarianism across the Sahelian belt. This stability can be attributed to the strengthening of democratic institutions like the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judicial system, and the legislature. These bodies must maintain their independence to ensure free and fair elections, uphold the rule of law, and provide checks and balances on the Executive.

Tackling corruption remains paramount as it has remained the root cause of many issues weakening our democracy. Transparency International’s Corruption Perceptions Index consistently ranks Nigeria low, indicating the need for robust anti-corruption measures. Efforts to combat corruption must be comprehensive, involving not just punitive actions but also preventive measures such as public education and institutional reforms.

Several other steps are necessary in tackling our existing issues. First, continuing to support and strengthen the democratic institutions insulating them from political interference to function effectively. Second, expanding civic education to empower citizens in understanding the constitution, their rights and responsibilities. Lastly, leveraging technology and innovation to enhance transparency and accountability in governance to build public trust. Platforms for e-governance should be developed, promoted and maintained to ensure that government actions are visible and open to scrutiny.

Addressing socio-economic inequalities will place us on the road to greater inclusion. Policies that promote equitable access to education, healthcare, and socio-economic opportunities can bridge the gap between the different segments of our society. As Mandela emphasized, “Overcoming poverty is not a gesture of charity. It is an act of justice.” 25 years of democracy should be recognised and celebrated as a significant achievement, especially in a region where democratic backsliding is becoming more common. By embracing the power of social media, fostering youth participation, ensuring the independence of democratic institutions, and tackling corruption, Nigeria can strengthen its foundations. As we look to the future, let us commit to building a democracy that prioritizes the quality of life of its citizens and remains resilient in the face of challenges.

AISHA SHUAIBU A business consultant with a decade of experience in brand and strategic management, Ms Aisha Shuaibu is Managing Director of Waffle Way in Abuja, and President of SWA Sports, an initiative that is promoting local talents in kickboxing, wrestling, and Taekwondo. Ms Shuaibu obtained her B Sc in Business Studies from the University of Bedfordshire, Luton in the United Kingdom and her Masters in Entrepreneurship and Innovation from Bahcesehir University, Istanbul, Turkey.