FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FCT, Abuja, Nigeria. June 12, 2026

Democracy Day: Centre LSD Calls on Leaders to Prioritise Security, Economic Relief and Human Dignity

As Nigeria marks Democracy Day, Centre LSD joins millions of citizens across the country in reflecting on our democratic journey, celebrating the resilience of the Nigerian people, and renewing our collective commitment to the ideals of freedom, justice, accountability, and inclusive development. This year's commemoration comes at a difficult moment for many Nigerians. Across the country, families are grappling with rising living costs, economic uncertainty, unemployment, inflation, and worsening poverty. For countless households, putting food on the table, paying school fees, accessing healthcare and sustaining livelihoods have become daily struggles.

Equally troubling is the persistent insecurity that continues to threaten lives, livelihoods, and national stability. The recent abduction of schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State and other parts of the country is a painful reminder that many Nigerians still live in fear. The heartbreaking images and stories emerging from the incidents have once again exposed the vulnerability of our communities and the urgent need for stronger and more effective security responses. No parent should have to wonder whether their child will return home safely from school. No teacher should have to risk their life while educating the next generation.

While democracy guarantees citizens the right to elect their leaders, its true value lies in its ability to improve the quality of life of the people. Democracy cannot be measured solely by the conduct of elections; it must also be judged by the security of citizens, the strength of institutions, access to opportunities, and the government's responsiveness to the needs of the people. Today, many Nigerians are asking a simple but important question: where are the dividends of democracy? Centre LSD believes that the answer lies in leadership that places people at the centre of governance. We therefore call on leaders at all levels Federal, State, and Local to recommit themselves to policies and actions that directly improve the lives of citizens.

Government must prioritise security, economic recovery, job creation, quality education, healthcare delivery, infrastructure development and social protection for the most vulnerable. We also urge public officials to strengthen transparency and accountability in governance. Citizens deserve institutions that work, public resources that are managed responsibly, and policies that produce measurable outcomes. Trust in democracy grows when government delivers tangible results and when citizens feel heard, protected and valued. As we commemorate Democracy Day, we recognise the resilience of Nigerians who continue to demonstrate hope and determination despite numerous challenges. Their sacrifices, perseverance and belief in a better future remain the foundation upon which our democracy stands.

Centre LSD calls on all stakeholders - government, civil society, the private sector, development partners and citizens to work together towards building a Nigeria where democracy is not merely a political system but a lived reality that guarantees security, opportunity, justice and dignity for all. Democracy must go beyond promises. It must deliver. Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria.

Signed

Monday Osassah

Executive Director African Centre for Leadership, Strategy & Development (Centre LSD)

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