President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Democracy Day address was not merely a celebration of twenty-seven years of uninterrupted democratic governance; it was a reminder that nations are built through difficult choices, sustained commitment, and collective resolve.
For many Nigerians, these are not easy times. The economic reforms undertaken by this administration have come with real pain. Families are adjusting to higher costs of living. Businesses are navigating a new reality. Citizens who have borne the burden of decades of policy distortions naturally desire quicker relief and more immediate rewards.
Their concerns are valid.
The pains are real and should never be dismissed by those in positions of authority. A compassionate government must continue to listen, refine its interventions, and cushion the effects of necessary reforms wherever possible.
For decades, Nigeria postponed hard decisions. We borrowed against the future, subsidized inefficiency, tolerated leakages, and often preferred comfort in the short term over sustainability in the long term. The result was an economy vulnerable to shocks, infrastructure deficits, weak productivity, and limited opportunities for a rapidly growing population.
The direction of the current journey, though challenging, appears to be addressing structural issues that previous administrations either could not or would not confront. The task before us is not simply to endure reforms but to ensure that they translate into tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
Democracy is not merely the right to vote. It is also the collective responsibility to build. It is the understanding that national development requires patience, accountability, and participation from citizens and leaders alike.
As we speak of reform, sacrifice, and national renewal, we must also acknowledge and thank the brave men and women on the frontlines of our security challenges. From our armed forces to the police, intelligence services, civil defence personnel, and community-based security volunteers, thousands rise each day and venture into danger so that millions of Nigerians may live in relative peace.
Many have paid the ultimate price. Others continue to endure separation from their families, difficult conditions, and immense personal risks in service to the nation. Their courage deserves not only our gratitude but our unwavering support. While much work remains to be done in securing every part of our country, we must recognize the commitment and sacrifice of those who stand between law-abiding citizens and those who seek to undermine our collective peace. A grateful nation salutes their service and honours the memory of those who have fallen in the line of duty.
This responsibility becomes even more urgent when viewed against the broader global environment. Across the world, Nigerians continue to confront discrimination, prejudice, and, in some instances, unacceptable xenophobic hostility. The reality is that no nation commands respect abroad if it fails to build strength, prosperity, and cohesion at home.
The answer to external hostility is not outrage alone. The answer is national renewal.
A strong economy protects its citizens. Functional institutions protect its citizens. Quality education protects its citizens. Productive industries protect its citizens. National unity protects its citizens.
That is why this moment calls for less cynicism and more commitment. Not blind support for government, but constructive engagement. Not the abandonment of criticism, but criticism that seeks solutions. Not perpetual pessimism, but a determination to contribute to the country’s progress.
The opposition must play its role. Civil society must play its role. The private sector must play its role. Labour must play its role. The media must play its role. Government must continue to demonstrate competence, transparency, and empathy.
Most importantly, Nigerians themselves must recognize that the work of nation-building cannot be outsourced.
The challenges before us are enormous, but they are not greater than our collective capacity. Democracy has given us the framework. What remains is the courage to use it effectively.
As we reflect on Democracy Day, we should neither ignore our difficulties nor surrender to them. We must acknowledge the sacrifices being made, insist on better governance, and continue moving forward. We must support those carrying the burden of securing our nation, encourage those building our economy, and inspire those who still believe in the promise of Nigeria.
The journey may be difficult, but the destination a secure, prosperous, united, and respected Nigeria is worth the effort.
This is the time to fix our country.
This is the time for all hands to be on deck.
And this is the time to remember that while governments may lead, it is ultimately the collective will, sacrifice, and determination of the Nigerian people that will define the destiny of our Republic.
May Nigeria Succeed.
–Showunmi is the founder of The Alternative Movement
