By Gautier Mignot
Democracy is not a single moment. It is a movement, free conversations leading to decisions, millions of voices demanding to be heard, and taken into account. Democracy is a daily duty. It thrives in the work of institutions, in the participation of citizens, in peaceful dialogue, and in the belief that progress must belong to everyone.
Today, Nigeria marks democracy day, remembering the end of the dark days of dictatorship, a moment to reflect on the democratic journey, and on the millions of Nigerians, who continue to struggle to shape its future every single day.
Nigeria’s democracy continues to evolve, shaped by participation, strengthen through dialogue, and driven by the energy and aspirations of its people: from communities demanding accountability to your people redefining civic participation, to women expanding the space for leadership and representation.
Across Nigeria and in spite of many challenges, democracy continues to grow through resilience, reform and inclusion. The European Union is proud to stand alongside Nigeria in that journey. Through the EU Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGN) programme, we are supporting institutions, partnerships and democratic processes that help strengthen participation, dialogue and inclusive engagement.
We are supporting Nigeria’s electoral umpire in areas that improve broader participation, democratic engagement, institutional learning, and the continued evolution of the electoral processes in Nigeria. We are working alongside the National Peace Committee and partners across the country, to encourage peaceful participation, democratic dialogue, and national cohesion, before, during and beyond elections.We are supporting legislative engagement, policy dialogue and collaboration across the justice sector in ways that help to strengthen accountability, democratic practice and the rule of law.
Across the country, we also continue to support greater inclusion for women, young people and persons with disabilities, because democracy is strongest when more voices are represented. And in a rapidly changing digital environment, we continue to support the independent media, civic information platforms and verification networks working to strengthen public information and democratic discourse. Because democracy depends on participation, on accountability, on peaceful dialogue, and on citizens believing their voices still matter. Across Nigeria, we continue to see that belief taking shape.
In classrooms, in newsrooms, in townhalls, in communities and in the energy of a new generation, determined to shape the future.
Through the Global Gateway Strategy, the European Union continues to invest in partnerships that expands opportunity, strengthen participation and support long-term resilience for the next generation. Because democracy is never finished, it must never be taken for granted. It must be protected, strengthened and renewed together.
Happy Democracy Day, Nigeria.
- Ambassador Gautier Mignot
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