Musa Na Allah, Sokoto
The National Youth Assembly of Nigeria (NYAN), under the visionary leadership of the National Speaker, Rt. Hon. Usman Bashar Shagari joined fellow citizens on Friday to commemorate Nigeria’s Democracy Day with a powerful press briefing themed: “Unlocking the Power of Youth: Leveraging Nigeria’s Demographic Dividend for National Progress.”
In a stirring address, the Assembly emphasized the pivotal role of Nigerian youth in sustaining democracy and driving national development. “Democracy is about the people,” Speaker Shagari declared, “and we, the youth, understand that we have no other country but Nigeria.
“We are the driving force behind any meaningful development, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure that our democracy serves the people.”
As a dynamic youth-led body committed to advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through strategic partnerships with NGOs, CSOs, and development organizations, NYAN sees democracy not just as a system of government, but as a vital instrument for inclusive growth and accountability.
The Assembly called on members of the National Assembly to remain steadfast in upholding democratic values by ensuring public participation in legislative processes.
“Public hearings are essential to ensure that the voices of everyday Nigerians are not only heard but reflected in national policies,” NYAN noted.
State governors were also urged to align their policies with the principles of democracy by prioritizing the welfare of their citizens. “True democracy delivers for the people,” the statement affirmed.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 25-year democratic journey, NYAN acknowledged significant milestones achieved during the period under review, which include the consolidation of democratic institutions, Expansion of political participation, Improvements in human rights and rule of law, and economic progress through industrial and agricultural initiatives
Yet, amidst these successes, NYAN pointed out the ongoing challenges that continue to hinder Nigeria’s democratic evolution. These include unresolved minimum wage disparities, Youth unemployment, Ethnic divisions, and Persistent insecurity
According to him, to combat the challenges and issues, NYAN proposed a set of policy priorities, including strengthening economic resilience through industrialization and agriculture, full implementation of the national minimum wage across all states, ensuring nationwide electricity stability, and fostering national unity and social cohesion.
Others are, strengthening security architecture and Building resilient democratic institutions.
“Although strides have been made in securing lives and property, more must be done,” the Assembly emphasized, highlighting the importance of collective effort among security agencies, government, and communities.
He said, NYAN reaffirmed its commitment to championing the Sustainable Development Goals as a blueprint for Nigeria’s future. Through advocacy, innovation, and grassroots engagement, NYAN continues to empower young Nigerians to be agents of positive transformation.
“As we mark this Democracy Day,” the statement concluded, “we call upon fellow youth, government institutions, civil society, and the private sector to join forces in building a more prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable Nigeria.”
The assembly also at the press conference inaugurated members of the Sokoto state National Youths Assembly convention planning committee with Ambassador Abdulazeez Imam as Chairman, Comrade Nasiru Yakubu secretary, Comrade Abdulsalam Alhassan Financial secretary and Comrade Yusuf bin Aliyu as Assistant secretary.
