As Nigeria marked Democracy Day on June 12, young voices from across the country gathered in Kaduna to reflect on the state of the nation—and to highlight a leadership style they believe offers a way forward.
At the heart of the event, a colloquium organized by the Young Democrats of Nigeria, was a compelling call for renewed commitment to democratic values. The forum turned the spotlight on Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, whose governance model was hailed as a “blueprint for purposeful leadership.”
Speaking on the Governor’s behalf, Mohammed Atiku Isah, Convener of the Bala Mohammed Abdulqadir Colloquium, delivered a powerful keynote warning of growing threats to Nigeria’s democratic fabric.
“Our democracy is under pressure—from creeping authoritarianism to deepening poverty,” he said. “We’re seeing signs of a one-party dominance that threatens the inclusive spirit on which our democracy was founded.”
He took aim at some recent federal policies, including the removal of fuel subsidy and currency devaluation, saying they’ve widened the gap between government and citizens. “These decisions don’t reflect the needs or aspirations of ordinary Nigerians. True democracy must deliver inclusion, economic justice, and shared prosperity.”
Atiku Isah praised what he called the “audacity of progress” under Governor Bala Mohammed, citing over 1,000 kilometers of roads built, revamped schools and hospitals, and the employment of 10,000 graduates. “This is not random development—it’s the outcome of a deliberate and people-centered strategy we call My Bauchi Project,” he said.
Also at the event was Adamu Dauda Yashi, Co-Convener of the colloquium and Chairman of the Bauchi State Youth Alliance. He lamented a political culture where voters are often forgotten after elections.
“Governor Bala represents a different approach,” Yashi said. “His is a leadership with soul. He doesn’t just build infrastructure—he builds trust, inclusion, and hope.”
He added, “Democracy isn’t just a ceremony; it’s a relationship. The real power of governance lies not in budgets, but in belief—the belief that we can do better.”
In a rousing speech, the Speaker of the Bauchi State Youth Parliament, Rt. Hon. Mohammad Idris Musa, challenged young Nigerians to rise with “intentional audacity” and redefine the meaning of leadership.
He commended Governor Bala Mohammed for appointing young people to strategic positions, describing it as a tangible investment in Nigeria’s future. “It’s not just about giving youth a seat at the table—it’s about trusting them with real responsibility,” he said.
Throughout the event, participants called for a governance model grounded in empathy, integrity, and service. They stressed the importance of equipping young people with civic knowledge and leadership skills to ensure they are not only included but also effective.
In closing, Rt. Hon. Musa delivered a powerful message: “We are not just the leaders of tomorrow—we are the conscience of today.”
As the event wrapped up, there was a shared sense of renewed optimism and determination to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy, not just through words, but through deliberate, youth-driven action.
