The Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has warned that democracy in Nigeria and across Africa is under increasing strain, but insisted it remains resilient and capable of delivering real progress if leaders and institutions rise to the challenge.
KDI’s Executive Director, Bukola Idowu, in a statement to mark the International Day of Democracy, said economic hardship, insecurity, disinformation, and political polarisation have deepened public distrust in governance, while civic space faces growing restrictions.
Idowu expressed concern that marginalised groups, including women, youths, and persons with disabilities, continue to face barriers to political participation, warning that this undermines inclusive governance.
He noted that despite these challenges, citizens continue to demonstrate resilience through organising, fact-checking, litigation, volunteering, and innovation.
The statement said: “As the world marks the International Day of Democracy, we are reminded that democracy is more than a date on the calendar. It is the daily practice of fair rules applied consistently, leaders held accountable, and citizens empowered with a voice not just on election day, but every day in between.
“Democracy is not abstract; it is practical, measured by whether people can truly hold power to account and whether governance delivers real improvements in people’s lives.
“Across Nigeria and Africa, democracy is under increasing pressure. Economic hardship and insecurity strain public patience. Disinformation and political polarisation weaken trust.
“Too many groups, especially women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised communities, continue to encounter barriers to participation. Civic space, instead of being protected, is sometimes restricted.
“Yet this is not a story of inevitable decline for Nigeria and Africa. It is also one of resilience and possibility. Nigerians continue to organise, observe, fact-check, litigate, volunteer, and innovate. That civic energy is our national advantage if institutions will match it with openness, accountability, and reform.
“As part of its advocacy, the organisation announced it will host a United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) side event on September 18, themed “Strengthening Democratic Foundations in Africa.”
The event will gather reformers, researchers, and practitioners to share practical strategies for strengthening election integrity, improving transparency in campaign finance, expanding civic education, and driving governance reforms.
