FINTIRI @59: DEMOCRACY MUST IMPROVE CITIZENS’ LIVES- SAYS OSINBAJO

Former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has urged African leaders to ensure that democracy delivers tangible improvements in citizens’ lives, warning that persistent economic hardship and poor governance could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions.

Osinbajo made the call on Tuesday while delivering a public lecture titled “Democracy and Development: The Imperative of People-Centred Governance” in Yola, Adamawa State, as part of activities marking Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri’s 59th birthday.

He argued that democracy should go beyond conducting elections to include effective governance, accountability and policies that improve the welfare of ordinary citizens.

According to Osinbajo, although many Africans prefer democracy to other forms of government, satisfaction with its performance remains low. Citing survey findings, he noted that 64 per cent of Africans preferred democracy, while only 38 per cent were satisfied with how it was functioning in their countries.

He attributed declining public confidence partly to economic difficulties, unemployment, inequality, corruption and the perception that governments often serve the interests of wealthy individuals rather than the wider population.

The former vice president warned that these challenges could further alienate young people from democratic institutions if governments failed to respond to their needs.

He called for people-centred leadership that prioritises social welfare, strengthens public institutions and ensures that government policies produce measurable results. He also stressed the importance of protecting citizens’ rights and upholding the rule of law.

Osinbajo commended Fintiri for investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, security and social welfare, describing such interventions as examples of how democratic leadership can improve living conditions.

In his remarks, Fintiri said the birthday lecture was organised to encourage meaningful discussions on leadership, democracy and national development. He also announced plans to establish a foundation after leaving office to provide scholarships and support vulnerable people.

The event brought together political leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders to discuss the challenges facing Nigeria’s democracy and possible pathways to sustainable development.