The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, has said Nigeria’s democracy and development remain a work in progress, urging collective effort from all citizens to overcome the nation’s challenges.
Afenifere leader, Pa Reuben Fasoranti, made this known in a Democracy Day message on Wednesday, congratulating Nigerians as the country marks Democracy Day on June 12.
Fasoranti noted that the anniversary serves as a reminder that Nigerians, regardless of ethnic or religious differences, can work together to build a prosperous and stable nation.
The Federal Government had earlier declared Thursday, June 12, a public holiday to commemorate the occasion.
The Afenifere leader expressed optimism that Nigeria could still achieve the lofty ideals envisioned by its founding fathers, provided the nation embraces visionary leadership, the right attitude, and a patriotic citizenry.
“While we celebrate the continued sustenance of democratic rule on this auspicious day, we must not forget that democracy itself remains a work in progress,” Fasoranti said.
He called on Nigerians, especially civil society organizations, to join hands with other progressive forces to deepen democratic principles and processes across the country.
Afenifere emphasized that strengthening democracy is essential not only for the current generation but also for generations yet unborn.
“As another Democracy Day is being observed on June 12, 2025, I, on behalf of Afenifere Worldwide, wish to heartily congratulate Nigerians on this momentous milestone.
“It is a milestone because it represents the day democracy and civil rule were reclaimed and restored in Nigeria after a prolonged, destabilizing military rule.
“Without doubt, the sustained and uninterrupted democratic rule since 1999 is a product of the sacrifices and commitment of our heroes and heroines in the civil society groups and other well-meaning compatriots, who, along with Afenifere, coalesced into the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) to form the vanguard of progressive forces that ensured the restoration of democracy and the birth of the Fourth Republic,” he stated.
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