By Christian ABURIME
Every year since June 12 was adopted as Nigeria’s national Democracy Day in commemoration of June 12, 1993 elections hailed as the freest and fairest in our history, leaders, patriots and statesmen have never ceased interrogating the democratic experience.
How have we fared as a nation? What challenges still confront us? How can we move forward? These are among critical questions that shape national conversations at The Platform, an annual policy forum dedicated to Democracy Day where thought leaders gather to dissect, diagnose and offer solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.
This year again, as it has been in past Democracy Day events at The Platform in Lagos, all ears will be tuned in to Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, the erudite Governor of Anambra State, whose technocratic prowess and deep commitment to national development have made him a leading voice in contemporary discourse on governance.
The globally acclaimed and respected professor of Economics and transformational leader is set to address the pivotal topic of “Rebuilding Our Nation.”
Governor Soludo is well known as a proven development economist whose career has been defined by a focus on systemic reform and economic revitalisation. His background as an intellectual and technocrat equips him with a unique perspective, one that combines academic rigour with pragmatic governance.
Through initiatives and projects aimed at transforming Anambra State into a model of progress, Governor Soludo has demonstrated time and again that he possesses both the vision and the technical acumen necessary for significant change. And he epitomises the qualities of a leader worth listening to as Nigeria navigates its current challenges.
The theme “Rebuilding Our Nation” has never been more relevant for Nigerians on this year’s Democracy Day. As the nation reflects on its democratic journey, it also contends with the myriad challenges that threaten its stability, unity, and prosperity.
From economic straits to issues of security, and social inequities, Nigerians nurse hopes for better days.
Governor Soludo’s intervention at The Platform promises to explore these pressing issues, emphasizing the need to transcend divisive politics and work collectively toward a resilient future.
The key to rebuilding the nation lies in policy reforms as well as in fostering a renewed sense of national identity, one that prioritises equity, inclusivity, and collective aspiration. This, Governor Soludo believes, can illuminate the path to national progress.
Indeed, his insights will remind Nigerians that rebuilding is a shared responsibility. It requires active participation from all sectors: government, civil society, and individuals alike. In the spirit of democracy, Governor Soludo will be encouraging citizens to embrace their roles as stakeholders in national development, while also making it clear that rebuilding Nigeria is an achievable goal that demands concerted effort and strategic planning.
As Democracy Day unfolds, let us remember the sacrifices made for Nigeria’s democratic ideals and embrace the vision of a united and prosperous nation.
In essence, “Rebuilding Our Nation” is not just a topic for Governor Soludo alone; it is a dialogue for all. The future of our nation rests on the willingness to listen, learn, and act.
Happy Democracy Day.