Abuja, Jan. 27, 2025 – The federal government will fix the economy, fight corruption, strengthen the judiciary and improve national cohesion in its bid to stabilise democracy.
Kashim Shettima, the Vice President, made the promised in Abuja on Monday at a National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria.
He said the current administration had a key responsibility of improving the elements that constitute the democratic system.
The vice President, who was represented by Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, his Special Adviser on political issues, said democracy is still considered the best form of government in spite of its imperfections.
“I would like to assure Nigerians that our administration is acutely aware of many concerns over our direction and goals, particularly given the difficulties which some of our policies inevitably generate.
“We are involved in correcting many defects in our economy and approaches to securing the citizens.
“We have been honest to admit that this transition from a broken past and a promising future will not be without a price, and we will remain focused on easing the pain and ensuring that we do not take our eyes off the goals.
“We will listen and adjust where necessary, and we will account our stewardship in all matters our challenging democratic systems demands.
“I am convinced that Nigeria shall rise again, answer to its full potential and lead the way to a future that has learnt lessons from a difficult past into a world in which our country will be a key player, and our young will be active champions of a democratic system because it speaks to them.
“It has been said many times that democracy is an imperfect system, yet superior to all others.
“We will continue to seek to provide evidence of the values of the democratic systems by, among others, fixing major weaknesses of our economy, securing our communities, fighting corruption, supporting free and fair elections, strengthening the independence of the judiciary and improving national cohesion.
“I would like to appeal to fellow Nigerians to join us in this challenging, but ultimately rewarding journey,” he said.
Mahamudu Bawumia, a former Vice President of Ghana, said that a government must be strengthened and determined enough for democracy to thrive in a country.
“By choosing and or changing leaders through the ballot box, the vote necessary is not sufficient to guarantee a true flourishing democratic culture,” he said.
Bawumia said one of the most important determinants of a flourishing democracy is the quality of institutions capable of guaranteeing rights, including property rights, and checking the wanton abuse of power.
He described the best democracy as the one that delivers public goods and services effectively and efficiently and creates opportunities for citizens whilst making conscious efforts to leave no one behind. (GBN)
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