As Nigeria marks Democracy Day today, June 12, 2025, the Unified Nigeria Youth Forum (UNYF) has expressed concern over what it described as the country’s limited progress despite 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s democratic stability since 1999, the forum argued that this milestone has not translated into meaningful development across key sectors. It called for a more proactive, youth-led political movement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In Abuja, UNYF president Comrade Toriah Olajide Filani lamented the stagnation in critical areas such as mining, healthcare, agriculture, security, and electricity. He noted that despite increasing FAAC allocations, the dividends of democracy remain unevenly distributed.
“We stand on the cusp of another Democracy Day, marking 26 years since our return to democratic governance.
“But we must ask a difficult question: Has this system truly delivered on its promise to improve the lives of Nigerians? Celebrating civilian rule is not enough—democracy must bring visible, positive change,” Filani said.
Filani pointed to ongoing illegal mining activities despite government investment, a struggling health sector, inadequate support for agriculture, persistent insecurity, and the continued underperformance of the power sector as evidence of governance failure.
He stressed the need for greater youth inclusion in leadership, urging young Nigerians to begin organising and rallying behind a credible youth candidate for the 2027 presidential election.
“The time for complacency is over. We must identify and support a young, visionary leader—someone who understands our generation’s struggles and has the courage to chart a new path for Nigeria,” Filani declared.
The forum also renewed its call for comprehensive electoral reforms aimed at deepening democratic practices and rebuilding public trust in the electoral process.
Among its proposals were electronic transmission of results to reduce disputes and boost transparency; compulsory use of card readers to curb vote manipulation and identity fraud; and the relocation of polling units to designated school premises for enhanced security and integrity.
On the long-standing issue of diaspora voting, UNYF demanded the inclusion of Nigerians living abroad through secure, digital platforms, stressing that millions of voices have been excluded for decades.
“In this digital age, it is unacceptable that citizens must travel long distances to vote. We need reforms that allow Nigerians to vote from anywhere—within or outside the country—supported by secure digital systems,” Filani said.
UNYF also proposed online voting options for domestic voters, especially in high-risk areas, as well as streamlined voter registration processes.
Filani cited persistent difficulties in acquiring Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), especially for citizens with limited internet access or those living in underserved communities.
“Many wake as early as 3:00 a.m. to queue at collection centers, only to face long delays. Systemic barriers to voter registration must be removed to ensure broad participation,” he said.
The forum further recommended real-time election monitoring to enhance transparency and confidence in the process, alongside inclusive policies that address the needs of rural communities and persons with disabilities.
UNYF’s position reflects growing frustration among Nigerian youth, many of whom are demanding not just representation but leadership in shaping the country’s future. Its call for a youth-driven movement ahead of 2027 could mark a turning point in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
According to the group, Nigeria’s future depends not just on maintaining democracy, but on delivering its true promise—good governance, equity, and inclusive development. With 26 years already behind, the forum insists that the next chapter must be defined by action, reform, and leadership renewal—anchored by the youth.
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