A DEMOCRACY DAY REFLECTION

Democracy day in Nigeria reminds us of the day the military relinguished power to the civilians after a popular call by the Nigerian people on the need to return power to the people by way of democracy. The current civilian rule is so far the longest and has been uninterrupted for twenty one years now. Before the June 6, 2018 decision by the current government of president Buhari, to make this day the new democracy day, it was previously held on the May 29 of every year. Today marks the first June 12 democracy day celebration in Nigeria. This day is equally important as it reminds us of what is till date regarded as the freest and fairest election in Nigeria's history which took place on this date in 1993, won by the late M. K.O Abiola, but was annulled by the military regime of General Ibrahim Babangida. Perhaps, this is in a bit to heal all wounds and calm all nerves especially from quarters in the country who still consider such as largely unfair and disappointing.
June 12, now democracy day was formerly known as Abiola day, celebrated in Lagos and some south western states of Nigeria. Today, it has finally kick started as our democracy day in Nigeria. It is a public holiday and reminds us of the long and hard fight that took place in the restoration of democracy in Nigeria.
As youths, we should understand that a meaningful democracy requires the meaningful participation of youths. Young people have much to offer especially in today's Nigeria, from innovation to creativity to new thinking. Our participation in democracy promotes active citizenship, strengthens social responsibility and enhances democratic processes and institutions. Let us be reminded also that, today's young citizens are tomorrow's leaders and decision makers.
As we celebrate this democracy day, let us be reminded of the challenges of poverty, discrimination, barriers to education, limited employment opportunities and many other things affecting the youths, and be determined to meaningfully participate in the democratic processes. Let us regard these challenges as real threats to our democracy. Let us seek to partner with our political leaders in democratic decision making and build partnership with them. Let us as young people take part in responsible and challenging activities that meet genuine needs, so as to have the opportunity to participate in planning and decision making. Also, let us not forget that our participation can make a difference.
Finally, for the Nigerian Youth Congress, Akwa Ibom State Chapter, democracy day is an ideal time to consider how youth engagements with traditional state and federal democratic institutions can be increased and that we must ponder about and work out strategy to achieve same. We must join hands together as youths to make a different and bring about the much desire change and the time is now.
Happy Democracy Day Celebration to all the Youths of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria at large.
Long live the Nigerian youths,
Long live Akwa Ibom Youths,
Long live our country Nigeria.

Yours in Youth Service
Nigerian Youth Congress Akwa Ibom State Chapter

Barr. Aniekan Etim
Chairman

Op,Nice write up..just that in nigeria,the youths came,they saw and they aided in conquering themselves.

the sacrifice of MKO Abiola will be appreciated when the anchor of leadership is left in the hands of purposeful youths. Great insight Barr.Etim, I pray the NYC breads this much needed leadership