Marking 26 years since the return to democratic governance in Nigeria, Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed has reaffirmed a critical truth: the success of democracy must be measured not only by the holding of elections, but by the quality of life it provides to citizens.
In his Democracy Day message on June 12, Governor Mohammed emphasized that democratic rule should be rooted in tangible progress—ensuring access to basic services, creating economic opportunities, and guaranteeing security. His remarks arrive at a time when the country faces persistent challenges, including inflation, unemployment, insecurity, and inadequate infrastructure.
While electoral reforms have strengthened Nigeria’s democratic process over the years, the governor argued that democratic legitimacy must come from performance, not just process. “Democracy,” he said, “must improve the lives of our people. It’s not enough to vote every four years—what matters is the impact governance has on everyday life.”
He underscored the need for improved access to quality healthcare, education, infrastructure, and job creation—elements he described as the real “dividends of democracy.” According to the governor, these priorities should guide all tiers of government, especially in light of Nigeria’s ongoing economic recovery and mounting security concerns.
Governor Mohammed’s reflections serve as a sobering reminder of the responsibilities attached to leadership in a democratic system. He called on elected officials across the nation to prioritize policies that directly improve the well-being of citizens, arguing that true democratic success lies in the delivery of social and economic justice—not mere adherence to electoral timetables.
As Nigeria celebrates more than two decades of democratic governance, his message invites introspection and renewed commitment from both government leaders and civil society. With active citizen participation, a free press, and accountable institutions, democracy in Nigeria can move from theoretical aspiration to meaningful transformation.