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Tinubu fully committed to good governance, anti-corruption fight – Shettima
Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government’s commitment to addressing critical economic challenges, combating corruption, bolstering the judiciary’s independence, and promoting national unity.
Shettima gave this assurance in Abuja during the national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria.
The event, themed “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity,” was organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development, in collaboration with several organizations, including the Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD), Westminster Foundation for Democracy, and the National Peace Committee.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Shettima emphasized the administration’s focus on addressing Nigeria’s challenges while appealing for public support.
“We acknowledge the concerns over our direction and goals, particularly as some of our policies generate inevitable difficulties. However, we are committed to correcting flaws in our economy, securing our communities, and strengthening institutions, including the judiciary,” Shettima stated.
He added, “This transition from a troubled past to a promising future will come at a price, but we remain determined to ease the burden and achieve our objectives. We are dedicated to governance that reflects the values of democracy—fighting corruption, fostering cohesion, and supporting free and fair elections. Nigeria will rise again to fulfill its potential and lead in democratic ideals.”
Shettima underscored the importance of leadership that prioritizes the welfare and security of citizens while respecting the rule of law. “Democracy must go beyond elections every four years. Leaders must be transparent, accountable, and committed to serving the people’s interests,” he said.
In his keynote address, Ghana’s former Vice President, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, shared insights from his country’s democratic experience, emphasizing that elections should not be treated as do-or-die affairs.
“The ambition for national progress must supersede personal ambitions. Democracy guarantees individual liberties, but its success depends on institutions capable of protecting citizens’ rights and curbing abuses of power,” Bawumia stated.
He highlighted the need for leaders to prioritize the delivery of public goods and services while ensuring inclusivity. “True democracy creates opportunities for all and ensures no one is left behind,” he added.
Dr. Otive Igbuzor, founding Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development, called for renewed efforts to rebuild trust in Nigeria’s institutions.
“Nigeria’s democracy, despite 25 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, faces structural and functional challenges, including electoral malpractices, corruption, and weakened governance structures,” Igbuzor said.
He expressed optimism that the conference would inspire public engagement and institutional reforms. “We aim to reignite hope and restore confidence in the judiciary, INEC, and other critical institutions to strengthen democratic accountability,” he added.
In a paper titled “Democracy in Nigeria: Challenges, Prospects, and the 2027 Elections,” Professor Jibrin Ibrahim decried the growing disconnection between political leadership and democratic values.
“Many leaders prioritize access to power over the ideals of democracy. This has led to political parties losing their identities, resulting in public apathy and a crisis of confidence in the system,” he said.
Jibrin noted that despite the challenges, there is hope for Nigeria’s democracy. “The people must reclaim their power, and institutions tasked with safeguarding democracy must fulfill their mandate without compromise,” he added.
The conference drew participation from prominent political figures, including Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, former governors Victor Attah, Rotimi Amaechi, Kayode Fayemi, and Waziri Tambuwal, among others.