By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRRCISE POST) – Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has declared that Nigeria’s democracy has become more resilient and its institutions stronger despite nearly three decades of economic, security and political challenges.
Speaking at the 27th Democracy Day Inter-Denominational Church Service in Abuja on Monday, Kalu said the country’s democratic journey since 1999 has been marked by both triumphs and trials, but noted that democracy has continued to endure because of the resilience of Nigerians.
According to him, Nigeria remains one of Africa’s largest and most influential democracies, with stronger institutions, improving electoral processes and increasing citizen participation in governance.
Reflecting on the nation’s democratic evolution, Kalu said the ability of democratic governance to survive periods of uncertainty and adversity demonstrates the determination of Nigerians to uphold constitutional rule.
“Twenty-seven years ago, our nation embarked on a democratic journey that has not been without challenges. We have experienced moments of triumph and moments of trial. We have faced economic pressures, security concerns, social tensions and political contests. Yet, through it all, democracy has endured,” he said.
The Deputy Speaker emphasized that while significant progress has been made, democracy should not be measured solely by the conduct of elections but by its impact on the lives of citizens.
He stated that democratic governance must ultimately be judged by its ability to improve living standards, create opportunities, protect freedoms and strengthen national unity.
Kalu also used the occasion to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as bold reforms aimed at repositioning the country’s economy and strengthening democratic governance.
He said the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda has recorded notable achievements in stabilizing public finances, advancing tax reforms, attracting foreign investments, improving infrastructure, promoting local government autonomy and enhancing national competitiveness.
The Deputy Speaker further highlighted initiatives such as the Student Loan Scheme, social intervention programmes, food security measures and reforms in the oil and gas sector as evidence of the government’s commitment to long-term national development.
While acknowledging that reforms often require difficult decisions and patience, Kalu said lasting national transformation can only be achieved through courage, vision and collective sacrifice.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting policies that promote economic resilience, institutional strengthening and sustainable development.
Offering prayers for President Tinubu, Kalu asked God to grant the President wisdom, strength, good health and discernment as he leads the country through a period of economic and political reforms.The Deputy Speaker also reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to enacting legislation that promotes economic growth, social justice, security, education, innovation and national development.
He pledged that the House of Representatives would continue to work collaboratively with all arms and levels of government to ensure inclusive prosperity and social stability across the country.
Calling on Nigerians to reject cynicism and hopelessness, Kalu said faith remains a vital force in nation-building, teaching perseverance, compassion, humility and unity.
He urged citizens to strengthen their commitment to peace, tolerance and mutual respect while supporting democratic institutions and the values that bind the country together.
The Deputy Speaker also offered prayers for the armed forces, security agencies, youths, women and all Nigerians, describing them as critical stakeholders in the nation’s democratic growth and development.
“As we celebrate 27 years of democratic governance, let us renew our covenant with our nation and recommit ourselves to building a Nigeria where opportunities abound, institutions function effectively and every citizen can realise their God-given potential,” he said.
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