This year, Nigeria proudly celebrates 26 years of stable civilian governance—no small feat for a nation that has weathered the storms of military coups and autocratic regimes. This milestone isn’t just a statistic; it’s a solid foundation upon which our economic future is being constructed. The significance of this durability cannot be overstated; it represents resilience, hope, and the potential for growth.
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Political stability serves not just as a governance metric, but as a vital business asset. In Nigeria, this democratic continuity has become a catalyst for bold reformation, availing changes that were unimaginable under previous administrations. The retreat from enduring petrol subsidies and the unification of our foreign exchange markets stand as markers of a determined shift towards restored macroeconomic confidence. These changes are groundbreaking; they signify a willingness to embrace market principles, inviting global investment while providing a clear policy direction for businesses looking to thrive in Africa’s vibrant landscape.
Yet, it’s important to acknowledge that such decisive actions are not without their costs. They represent a hefty price paid for progress, but they are unmistakable indicators of earnest intent. Nigeria is preparing to play its part on the global stage—a country ready to attract investments and foster innovation while adhering to the rules of the market.
As the Minister of Information, I bear witness to how these reforms are communicated and continuously reassessed—not merely within the confines of parliaments or press releases, but within the bustling streets and the ever-evolving culture. The conversations are alive, dynamic, and multifaceted, reflecting a broad spectrum of voices.
One particularly striking feature of our landscape is the vibrant engagement of Nigeria’s youth. With over 70% of our population under the age of 30, they are anything but passive observers. These young people are critics, creators, and catalysts for change. Utilizing digital platforms, they demand transparency, organize civic actions, and launch startups that redefine our methods of interaction, banking, and employment. This energetic demographic embodies a pivotal truth: democracy in Nigeria is more than a political framework; it serves as a powerful engine of innovation.
Nowhere is this palpable spirit more prominently displayed than within Nigeria’s flourishing cultural economy. Our Afrobeats music and Nollywood films have become global sensations, but they also reflect civic expressions that delve into pressing societal themes such as identity, equity, and justice. What began as mere entertainment has evolved into a potent form of democratic storytelling—resonating globally and driving tangible economic benefits.
However, for democracy to genuinely thrive, it must deliver on its promises. This is the challenge we grapple with today: not merely preserving freedoms, but transforming them into essential services like education, reliable infrastructure, accessible justice, and dignified job opportunities. The next chapter in Nigeria’s democratic journey is about transcending mere survival to embrace the notion of thriving and transformative growth.
We recognize the skepticism that potential investors may harbor. Yet, we urge them to look beyond surface risks to see the core fundamentals: a resilient democracy, a proactive reform agenda, a blossoming cultural renaissance, and a vast, entrepreneurial populace eager to build something enduring. The allure of what Nigeria can offer is significant; it’s an opportunity waiting to be seized.
Let’s be honest: Nigeria is not without its imperfections. No country is. But our persistence sets us apart. In a region grappling with democratic setbacks, this steadfastness is invaluable—not just for markets and investors, but for the millions of citizens who place their faith in democracy and its potential to effect meaningful change.
As we navigate these waters of growth and transformation, it’s crucial that we remain patient yet vigilant. The road ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the collective determination of Nigerians fuels a unique narrative of hope and perseverance. After all, as the saying goes, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Each step we take today paves the way for a more promising future.
Mohammed Idris is Nigeria’s Minister of Information and National Orientation—a media executive and public communicator who embraces these challenges head-on.
Edited By Ali Musa
Axadle Times International – Monitoring.
