Former Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Dr Nasir Danladi Bako, has called on Nigerians to protect and cherish the nation’s hard-earned democracy, while upholding the principles of free speech and freedom of association.
He made the appeal during a special Democracy Day interview on Radio Nigeria Sokoto’s Royal FM 101.5 where he featured as a guest on the station’s personality programme.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s democratic journey, the veteran broadcaster emphasised that democracy, despite its procedural complexities, remains the most inclusive, people-driven and prosperity-oriented system of governance. He noted that while past military regimes may have recorded achievements through decrees and unilateral action, they lacked grassroots participation and did not benefit from the legitimacy and representational value of an elected legislature.
“Consultation and consensus building may slow down the democratic process, but it ultimately yields genuine, people-centred governance and sustainable development,” he said.
Bako, who also served as Sokoto State’s Commissioner for Information, underscored the need to harness the power of Nigeria’s youthful population, which constitutes over 50 percent of the citizenry. He urged young Nigerians to not only take a keen interest in politics but also to fully participate in the electoral process and seek elective office, stressing that the nation stands to gain immensely from their energy and innovative ideas.
He also expressed support for the economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Tinubu, calling for total and unwavering national backing of the administration’s policies.
Dr. Bako, who holds the traditional title of Kogunan Sokoto, is also a recipient of the national honour, Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).