The Gombe Network of Civil Society Organisations (GONET) has called on leaders across Nigeria to prioritise the security of lives and property, create sustainable employment opportunities, and strengthen transparency and accountability in governance as the country marks this year’s Democracy Day.
In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Ambassador Ibrahim Yusuf, and Secretary, Dr. Ben Maina, GONET said Democracy Day offers an opportunity to reflect on Nigeria’s democratic journey and recommit to building a nation where governance delivers meaningful benefits to citizens.
“As Nigeria marks Democracy Day, GONET joins millions of Nigerians in celebrating the resilience of our democratic journey and the sacrifices made by those who fought for democratic governance,” the statement read.
The organisation noted that although democracy has given citizens the opportunity to participate in governance, more efforts are required to ensure that the dividends of democracy are felt by all Nigerians.
“While democracy has provided citizens with the opportunity to participate in governance, much remains to be done to ensure that its dividends are felt by all. We therefore call on leaders at all levels to rise to the expectations of the people by prioritising the security of lives and property, creating sustainable employment opportunities for the growing youth population, and investing in smart agriculture, innovation, entrepreneurship and technology-driven development,” GONET stated.
The civil society group also urged governments at all levels to deepen transparency, accountability and citizen engagement in decision-making processes as a means of accelerating inclusive and sustainable development.
“We also urge governments to strengthen transparency, accountability and citizen participation in decision-making processes to accelerate inclusive and sustainable development,” the statement added.
GONET further encouraged Nigerians to remain committed to promoting peace, unity and tolerance, stressing that democracy thrives when citizens actively participate in governance.
“As citizens, we must continue to play our part by promoting peace, unity, tolerance and active engagement in governance. Together, let us build a Nigeria where democracy delivers prosperity, justice, security and equal opportunities for all,” the organisation said.
The group wished Nigerians a memorable Democracy Day celebration and reiterated its commitment to advocating for good governance and citizens’ participation in the democratic process.
