Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, has said Nigeria’s democratic institutions have continued to grow stronger despite economic pressures, security challenges and political contests over the past 27 years.
Speaking at the 27th Democracy Day Inter-Denominational Church Service held on Saturday in Abuja, Kalu noted that democracy has taken firm root in the country.
He added that Nigeria remains one of Africa’s largest and most influential democracies, with its electoral processes evolving and citizens increasingly shaping governance.
The Deputy Speaker, however, stressed that democracy must ultimately be measured by its ability to improve lives, expand opportunities, protect freedoms and strengthen national cohesion.
Reflecting on the nation’s democratic journey, Kalu said Nigeria has experienced both triumphs and trials but has remained resilient.
“Twenty-seven years ago, our nation embarked on a democratic journey that has not been without challenges. We have witnessed moments of triumph and moments of trial. Yet, through it all, democracy has endured, and that endurance is a testament to the resilience of the Nigerian spirit,” he said.
He emphasised that the strength of a nation lies not in the absence of challenges but in the collective resolve of its people to overcome them.
Kalu also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his commitment to democratic governance and ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening the economy and infrastructure.
He noted that under the Renewed Hope Agenda, the administration has taken bold steps to stabilise the economy, improve public finances, expand infrastructure, and enhance national competitiveness, alongside efforts to attract foreign investment, reform the tax system, boost domestic revenue, and strengthen local government autonomy.
According to him, the government has also made notable investments in education through the Student Loan Scheme, expanded social intervention programmes, improved food security, and implemented reforms in the oil and gas sector to boost production and investor confidence.
Kalu acknowledged that reform efforts often require difficult decisions and patience but stressed that lasting national transformation is built on courage, vision and commitment to the greater good.
He prayed for wisdom, strength and good health for the President as he continues to lead the country through a critical phase of reform and transformation.
The Deputy Speaker further reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to enacting laws that promote economic growth, social justice, security, education, innovation and national development.
He stressed the importance of collaboration among all arms and levels of government to achieve inclusive prosperity and social stability.
Urging Nigerians to reject cynicism and embrace nation-building, Kalu said faith teaches perseverance, compassion, humility and unity.
He also called for prayers for the President, public office holders, the armed forces, security agencies, youths, women and all Nigerians, noting that collective efforts are essential to strengthening democratic governance.
“As lawmakers, we recognise that democracy is not measured solely by elections. It must be judged by its capacity to improve lives, expand opportunities, protect freedoms and strengthen national cohesion,” he said.
Kalu encouraged citizens to renew their commitment to building a nation where opportunities abound, institutions function effectively and every Nigerian can realise their full potential.