By Abdullahi Alhassan, Kaduna
As Nigeria celebrates 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule, the YandyTech Community has called on leaders at all levels to place national interest above personal, ethnic, and sectional considerations, warning that public confidence in democratic institutions is eroding amid persistent economic hardship and insecurity.
This is contained in a statement signed by Nchiye Joy Dogara, Communications and Partnership Associate for YandyTech Community and made available to Newsmen in Kaduna.
The community said the milestone since the return to civilian governance in 1999 offers a moment for both celebration and honest national stocktaking.
“Over the past twenty-seven years, Nigeria has recorded notable achievements, including sustained democratic transitions, increased civic participation, growth in technology and innovation, and the emergence of a vibrant youth population driving social and economic change,” the group stated.
It credited these gains to the resilience of Nigerians and the endurance of democratic institutions, noting that the country’s young population has become a visible force in shaping social and economic transformation.
However, the statement struck a cautionary tone, pointing to ongoing challenges that it said are undermining the promise of democracy for ordinary citizens.
“Many citizens continue to grapple with economic hardship, rising costs of living, unemployment, insecurity, and declining public confidence in key institutions,” it said. The group added that concerns over the rule of law, accountability, justice, and governance effectiveness remain central to the national conversation.
The YandyTech Community argued that democracy should be judged not only by elections but by its ability to deliver tangible outcomes: security, opportunity, justice, and improved living standards.
“Nigeria’s progress depends on leaders at every level placing national interest above personal, political, ethnic, or sectional considerations,” the statement read. It urged the adoption of visionary leadership, stronger institutions, transparent governance, and policies focused on public welfare.
Highlighting Nigeria’s demographic advantage, the group said the country’s youth population remains its greatest asset and must be empowered through education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and inclusive economic opportunities.
The statement also paid tribute to those who fought for democratic governance and acknowledged Nigerians who continue to hold onto the promise of a better nation. It called on leaders, institutions, and citizens to recommit to the values of democracy, national unity, accountability, and service.
“The future of Nigeria depends on our collective determination to build a nation where democracy translates into meaningful progress for every citizen,” the group said.
