Yiaga Africa, a civil society organisation, has advised political office holders to prioritise economic inclusion, education, security, and invest in leaving a resounding legacy.

Yiaga’s media and communication officer, Jennifer Dafwat, gave the advice in an interview with journalists on Friday in Lagos.

“Instead of positioning for second terms or plotting your next move, invest in leaving a resounding legacy,” Ms Dafwat advised.

She added, “Dare to move beyond a performative and short-sighted approach to governance.”

Ms Dafwat emphasised the need for visible empathy, responsive governance, and opportunities for citizens to live with dignity.

The media officer, who offered advice to leaders at all levels of government, urged them to exercise courageous leadership tempered with compassion.

She noted that their policies must match targeted social protection, clear communication, and inclusive consultation.

“Where leadership is not anchored in empathy, it risks alienating the people, eroding the legitimacy leaders seek to uphold and can be seen as punitive,” she warned.

Ms Dafwat also urged local government (LG) chairpersons to strengthen grassroots governance and service delivery.

She noted that LGs were the first contact and service providers for the people.

”It is their actions or inactions that define how the government is viewed by citizens,” Ms Dafwat said.

She emphasised that democracy was not a spectator sport; instead it thrived when citizens were active, informed, and engaged.

Ms Dafwat, therefore, urged citizens to demand transparency and hold leaders accountable.

“They should participate in town halls, budget hearings, and policy discussions; register to vote, show up at the polls, and stay involved beyond elections.

“Civic vigilance is the oxygen that keeps democracy alive. By engaging in the democratic process, citizens can shape Nigeria’s future and ensure that the dividends of democracy are transformative and not just palliative,” Ms Dafwat said.

(NAN)