Kano residents say the 27 years of uninterrupted democracy in Nigeria are worth celebrating because they have brought significant development since the country returned to democracy in 1999.

They made this known in separate interviews in Kano.

A cross-section of the residents noted that sustaining the democratic system of government since 1999 remains Nigeria’s most significant achievement, worthy of celebration.

The residents said the system had strengthened citizens’ rights to participate in governance and to express their opinions freely, unlike under military rule.

One of the residents, Rabi Tajudeen, said that in a democracy, citizens have the right to express their opinions and hold leaders accountable for what they do, as this would help bring positive change to society.

A 300-level political science student, Habiba Nasir, stated that the electoral process has improved significantly through the introduction of the BVAS and has increased voter consciousness.

She therefore urged all stakeholders to continue to do more to enhance electoral processes, thereby further entrenching good governance for the betterment of the country.

Ms Nasir also called on governments at all levels to focus more attention on improving citizens’ welfare, fighting security and creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Sadik Usman, a student, expressed delight that as the nation had transitioned from dictatorship to democracy, it should now shift towards good governance.

He said it would be through good governance that it could address some of its challenges, such as poverty, unemployment, and insecurity, which are bedevilling its development.

On his part, a commercial tricycle operator, Ibrahim Suleiman, said insecurity, unemployment and poor infrastructure remain major concerns among Nigerians.

A small-scale business operator, Shehu Ahmed, said that though democracy strengthened citizens’ rights to participate in governance, Nigerians should continue to cultivate the habit of patriotism.

He also said that some small-scale businesses were still struggling to survive due to inflation and high production costs, among other factors.

Mr Ahmed further urged the government to improve infrastructure and ensure policy consistency to support small and medium-scale enterprises.

The respondents further demanded non-partisan accountability in the fight against corruption to ensure that public resources are effectively utilised for the benefit of all citizens.

The residents concluded that while Nigeria’s democracy has outlasted previous attempts, the next phase must translate electoral success into visible improvements in citizens’ livelihoods.

(NAN)