The president of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has called on Nigerians to embrace unity, vigilance and active participation in nation-building, as the country marks 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance.

Mr Akpabio, who made the call in his Democracy Day message, issued by his Spokesperson, Eseme Eyibo, in Abuja on Friday, described Nigeria’s democratic experiment as a testament to endurance despite years of agitations.

He commended Nigerians for their resilience and support for democracy despite some low moments.

“On behalf of the 10th National Assembly, I congratulate every Nigerian for the sustenance of democracy for close to three decades. Mistakes have been made in the course of this journey, but we will surely get to the desired destination with your support,” he stated.

Mr Akpabio urged Nigerians to continue to believe in democratic governance and not give in to attempts by elements of backwardness to derail the process.

According to him, democracy should extend beyond the conduct of elections and be anchored on accountability, justice, compassion and service to the common good.

Mr Akpabio called on youths to participate actively in the nation’s political process, stressing that the younger generation formed the fulcrum of leadership succession.

“As we commemorate June 12, I wish to encourage the youth not to sit on the fence but be active participants in the nation’s political activities. The youth constitute the fulcrum of those who will succeed us tomorrow.

“Let us therefore rededicate ourselves to the ideals of freedom, transparency and accountable government, social justice and active citizen participation, especially the youth,” he said.

On the current security challenge, the Senate president appealed to Nigerians to unite and cooperate with the government to tame the monster that had befallen the country.

He assured Nigerians that President Bola Tinubu’s administration remained committed to ending insecurity and securing the release of all persons in captivity.

“I urge every Nigerian to support the administration of President Bola Tinubu in his efforts to fight terrorism,” stated Mr Akpaibo. “We understand the pains you are going through, but the government is not resting on its oars and hopefully, we shall overcome this current challenge and all will be well with Nigeria.”

(NAN)