Vice President Kashim Shettima has reiterated the commitment of the ruling All Progressives Congress administration to combating corruption, revitalizing the economy, enhancing national cohesion, and safeguarding the independence of the judiciary.
Shettima made the statement at the national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, held in Abuja on Monday. The event, titled “Strengthening Nigeria’s Democracy: Pathways to Good Governance and Political Integrity,” was organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Political Issues, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, Shettima acknowledged the imperfections of democracy but emphasized that it remains the best form of governance. He affirmed that the administration is open to feedback and will adjust its approach as necessary, while holding itself accountable for its actions.
Shettima expressed confidence that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges, reach its full potential, and play a significant role on the global stage. He highlighted the importance of ensuring that Nigeria’s youth embrace democracy, recognizing its relevance to their future.
The Vice President outlined the administration’s priorities, including addressing economic weaknesses, enhancing security, fighting corruption, supporting free and fair elections, and reinforcing the judiciary’s independence. He also stressed the need for greater national unity.
In closing, Shettima called on Nigerians to support the administration’s efforts, stressing that the Bola Tinubu-led government is deeply invested in strengthening the country’s democratic framework.
“We will listen and adjust where necessary, and we will account for our stewardship in all matters our challenging democratic systems demand.
“I am convinced that Nigeria shall rise again, answer to its full potential and lead the way to a future that has learnt lessons from a difficult past into a world in which our country will be a key player, and our young will be active champions of a democratic system because it speaks to them.
“It has been said many times that democracy is an imperfect system, yet superior to all others.
“We will continue to seek to provide evidence of the values of the democratic systems by, among others, fixing major weaknesses of our economy, securing our communities, fighting corruption, supporting free and fair elections, strengthening the independence of the judiciary and improving national cohesion,” he said.
