Nigerians empowered by democracy – NANS

The Head of Senate Secretariat of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Abdullahi Muhammad Saleh, said that Nigeria’s 27 years of uninterrupted democracy have strengthened citizens’ freedoms and broadened access to opportunities, particularly for young people.

Saleh made the remarks on Friday during a Democracy Day walk organized by NANS in Kano State.

Speaking at the event, he urged that democracy in Nigeria be celebrated and its impact on citizens’ lives reflected upon.

“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 granted Nigerians greater freedoms and a wider space for civic participation.

“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 long 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.