Vice-President Kashim Shettima has assured Nigerians that the current administration will continue to provide the values of the democratic systems by fixing major weaknesses of the economy, securing communities, fighting corruption strengthening the independence of the judiciary and improving national cohesion.
Shettima stated this in Abuja on Monday at the national conference on strengthening democracy in Nigeria, themed: “Strengthening Nigeria’s democracy: Pathways to good governance and political integrity,” organised by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development.
Shettima, represented by his Special Adviser on political issues, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed said while democracy is not a perfect system, it is still considered the best form of government compared to others.
“I would like to assure Nigerians that our administration is acutely aware of many concerns over our direction and goals, particularly given the difficulties which some of our policies inevitably generate. We are involved in correcting many defects in our economy and approaches to securing the citizens. We have been honest to admit that this transition from a broken past and a promising future will not be without a price, and we will remain focused on easing the pain and ensuring that we do not take our eyes off the goals.
“We will listen and adjust where necessary, and we will account our stewardship in all matters our challenging democratic systems demands. 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. I would like to appeal to fellow Nigerians to join us in this challenging but ultimately rewarding journey,” he said.
