VON DG Urges Nigerians to Celebrate Democratic Gains

Voice of Nigeria (VON) Director-General, Jibrin Baba Ndace, has urged citizens to celebrate Nigeria’s democratic progress, saying the country has remained resilient and defied predictions of collapse after 65 years of Independence.

Speaking on a television programme, Ndace noted that Nigeria’s democracy has continued to mature through successive peaceful transitions since 1999, despite doubts that the nation could survive those moments

“From 1999, when Nigeria returned to democracy, nobody gave us that chance. They said it wouldn’t last more than four years, yet we have sustained it for over two decades,” he said.

The DG cited key turning points such as the peaceful handover from President Olusegun Obasanjo to Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, the nation’s ability to remain stable after Yar’Adua’s death, and Goodluck Jonathan’s 2015 concession as milestones that showcased Nigeria’s political maturity and global respect.

“When President Jonathan picked up the phone to congratulate his opponent, he became not just a national hero, but an African icon. That single act changed how the world saw democracy in Africa,” Mallam Ndace noted.

The VON DG emphasised that while challenges remain, Nigeria’s democratic journey shows the strength and resolve of its people and leaders who “put the country above personal interests.”

Ndace also praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for consolidating the “Renewed Hope Agenda” and making long-term decisions for national growth.

“Nigeria may not be perfect, but we have every reason to be proud. When you travel abroad, you realise how much we have and how strong this country truly is,” he said.

Ndace urged Nigerians to appreciate the nation’s progress, harness its potential, and contribute to building a more prosperous and united country.

Olusola Akintonde