Skip to main content

Building a New Democracy in Nigeria: A Future-Focused Paradigm

 

Building a New Democracy in Nigeria: A Future-Focused Paradigm


By Dr Ojoachele Felix Akor 

Center For Social Justice And National Integration (CSJANI)


Nigeria, a nation beset by the vicissitudes of democratic governance, stands at the cusp of a transformative era. As the country navigates the complexities of modern statecraft, it is imperative to conceptualize a new democracy that is inclusive, accountable, and innovative. This necessitates a paradigmatic shift in the country's governance architecture, one that prioritizes the empowerment of citizens, the promotion of social justice, and the entrenchment of transparency and accountability.


The foundations of a new democracy in Nigeria must be anchored on the principles of constitutionalism, electoral integrity, and judicial independence. A robust and inclusive constitution, crafted through a participatory and inclusive process, must provide the framework for governance, ensuring that the rights and aspirations of all citizens are protected and promoted. The electoral process must be reformed to guarantee the integrity of elections, ensuring that the will of the people is reflected in the outcome of the electoral process.


Inclusive governance, a sine qua non for democratic consolidation, must be prioritized in the new democracy. This necessitates the decentralization and devolution of power, empowering local governments and communities to take ownership of their development. Social justice and equity must also be at the forefront of governance, addressing the historical injustices and promoting equal opportunities for all citizens. As the wise saying goes, "justice delayed is justice denied." It is imperative that Nigeria's new democracy prioritizes justice and equity, ensuring that the rights of all citizens are protected and promoted.


Accountability and transparency, the hallmarks of good governance, must be entrenched in the new democracy. This requires the strengthening of anti-corruption institutions and mechanisms, ensuring that those who abuse power are held accountable. The promotion of transparency and accountability also necessitates the adoption of open government initiatives, providing citizens with access to information and ensuring that the government is responsive to their needs. A free and independent media, as well as a vibrant civil society, are critical in holding those in power accountable and promoting good governance. After all, "the pen is mightier than the sword."


Innovation and economic development, the drivers of progress and prosperity, must be prioritized in the new democracy. Leveraging technology and digital transformation can drive economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the quality of life for citizens. Sustainable development and environmental sustainability must also be at the forefront of economic planning, ensuring that Nigeria's growth is balanced and equitable. Investing in human capital development, including education, healthcare, and skills development, is critical in unlocking the potential of Nigeria's citizens. As the adage goes, "you can't build a house without a foundation." Nigeria's new democracy must prioritize human capital development, providing its citizens with the skills and knowledge necessary to drive economic growth and prosperity.


As Nigeria builds a new democracy, it is essential to future-proof its institutions and processes. This requires empowering young Nigerians to drive democratic change, fostering regional and global cooperation to address shared challenges, and embracing adaptive governance to respond to emerging challenges. By doing so, Nigeria can ensure that its democracy remains resilient, responsive, and relevant to the needs of its citizens. As the wise saying goes, "the best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago, the second-best time is now." Nigeria must seize the opportunity to build a new democracy, one that is inclusive, accountable, and innovative.


In conclusion, building a new democracy in Nigeria requires a future-focused approach that prioritizes inclusivity, accountability, and innovation. By strengthening the foundations of democracy, promoting inclusive governance, ensuring accountability and transparency, driving innovation and economic development, and future-proofing its institutions, Nigeria can unlock its full potential and become a beacon of democratic excellence in Africa. As the local proverb goes, "when the ripe mango falls, all the birds will rejoice." Nigeria's new democracy will be a ripe mango, providing opportunities for all citizens to rejoice and thrive. The time for transformation is now, and Nigerians must work together to build a brighter democratic future, one that is filled with hope, promise, and prosperity for all.

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

GOVERNOR ODODO'S INTERVENTION ON THE ARREST OF COMRADE USMAN AUSTIN OKAI IS SACROSANCT

  OPEN LETTER : GOVERNOR ODODO'S INTERVENTION ON THE ARREST OF COMRADE USMAN AUSTIN OKAI IS SACROSANCT The name of His Excellency, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo has gained traction and continued to dominate positive conversations on the social and the conventional news media as a Peace Ambassador, Servant Leader and a born Unifier given his antecedents on prompt payment of salaries, arrears and other emoluments for workers and the retired civil servants of Kogi State.  Your Excellency, Sir, I have been around the men and  women of authority in governance, at the corridor of power and at the helm of affairs within and outside Kogi State and for sure, it is not easy and rosy to be the Governor of Kogi State which is undoubtedly the microcosm of Nigeria given her heterogeneous nature and the borders it shares with ten (10) other sub-nationals in about three (3) sub-regions of South East, South-South and South West including other States within her own North Central geopolitical z...

JONATHAN ONEKUTU FUNDS THE CLEARING OF THE MAJOR PART OF WATER CHANNEL IN IYALE:

  JONATHAN ONEKUTU FUNDS THE CLEARING OF THE MAJOR PART OF WATER CHANNELS IN IYALE: The clearing or the intentional removal of sands from water channels or gutters during the rainy season is crucial for countless reasons. Mr. Jonathan Onekutu from Iyale in his capacity as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Jolight Oil and Gas LTD has brought happiness to the people being last  Sunday of the month; especially those whose houses are domiciled around the lower areas in Iyale Community. This no doubt will prevents Water Damage as the clogged gutters capable of causing water overflow due to the sands are deliberately emptied via direct labour in order to stop damage to roads, walls, windows, and foundations. This singular monumetal effort will reduce the risk of foundation Issues. Excess water can accumulate around the foundation, potentially causing cracks and structural problems. The removal of pest infestations as a result of standing water in gutters can a...

ABENEMI’S CARETAKER COMMITTEE OF KOGI SDP: A FARCE?

  ABENEMI’S CARETAKER COMMITTEE OF KOGI SDP: A FARCE? The situation regarding the caretaker committee established by the SDP in Kogi state is beginning to shift, as the presiding judge has decided to return the case to the Chief Judge (CJ) for reassignment to a substantive judge once the judicial vacation ends. This decision is significant because, upon reassignment, the new judge will set a fresh date for the hearing, which, according to reports, may be sometime in October or November. Until then, all parties must maintain the status quo, meaning, Hon. Moses Peter will continue as the chairman, and the caretaker committee's actions will be rendered ineffective, making all their decisions null and void. In terms of the upcoming elections, this implies that: - The Kogi State Independent Electoral Commission (KOSIEC) will be legally bound to recognize Moses Peter as the party chairman and work with him on all electoral matters. - Candidates not presented to KOSIEC through the office ...