The Head of Senate Secretariat of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Abdullahi Muhammad Saleh, has said Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democracy have strengthened citizens’ freedoms and expanded access to opportunities, especially for young people.
He made the remarks on Friday during a Democracy Day walk organised by NANS in Kano State.
Speaking at the event, Saleh said democracy in Nigeria should be celebrated and reflected upon for its impact on citizens’ lives.
“We are here to celebrate democracy, the unstoppable democracy of 27 years. And we need to applaud ourselves,” he said.
He explained that democratic governance has given Nigerians greater freedoms and space for participation in civic life.
“Let’s appreciate ourselves. Let’s celebrate it among ourselves. Because democracy comes with several packages, freedom of speech, freedom of movement, and freedom of expression of every kind of interest, as far as that interest is legal,” he added.
Saleh also linked democratic progress to improved access to education and empowerment opportunities.
According to him, young Nigerians are now better positioned than before.
“I always say that democracy has come with a lot of things. Today, a child of a common man can go to school due to the NELFUND introduction. Not only the tuition fee, but upkeep is being given to students to keep them on campuses,” he said.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s political journey since the return to civilian rule, he noted that each administration has contributed in different ways to national development.
“At our age, we are able to witness the transition right from President Obasanjo down to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Every transition comes with development,” he said.
He added that even technological changes over the years are part of the broader gains of democratic governance.
“During President Obasanjo’s tenure, the introduction of handsets was a top-notch achievement, which Today we are enjoying, and it’s part of the dividends of democracy,” he stated.
