KDI Urges Renewal of Commitment to Democracy, Calls for Inclusive Governance

KDI Urges Renewal of Commitment to Democracy, Calls for Inclusive Governance

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

As the world marked the International Day of Democracy on Monday, the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) called for a renewed commitment to building a democracy that works for all Nigerians, especially women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other marginalized groups.

Executive Director of KDI, Bukola Idowu, in a statement, stressed that democracy should go beyond a symbolic date on the calendar and must be lived out in practice through accountability, fairness, and citizen participation.

“Democracy is more than a date on the calendar. It is the daily practice of fair rules applied consistently, leaders held accountable, and citizens empowered with a voice – not just on election day, but every day in between,” Idowu said.

He warned that democracy in Nigeria and across Africa is under strain from insecurity, economic hardship, political polarisation, and disinformation, adding that shrinking civic spaces have further hindered inclusive participation.

“Too many groups, especially women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised communities, continue to encounter barriers to participation. Civic space, instead of being protected, is sometimes restricted,” he lamented.

Despite the challenges, Idowu insisted that the story of democracy in Africa is also one of resilience and possibility. He pointed to the civic energy of Nigerians who continue to organise, fact-check, litigate, volunteer, and innovate, describing it as a national advantage that institutions must support with openness, accountability, and reforms.

“For us, democracy is not about optics, it is about outcomes. The real test is simple: does democracy work for everyone, or only for a privileged few?” he noted.

The KDI boss highlighted the organisation’s mission of strengthening democratic practices through evidence-based advocacy, including improving election integrity, expanding civic education, enhancing transparency in campaign finance, and driving reforms that make institutions more accountable to citizens.

As part of its ongoing efforts, KDI announced an upcoming side event at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) tagged “Strengthening Democratic Foundations in Africa.” The forum, slated for September 18, 2025, will bring together reformers, researchers, and practitioners to share practical steps and commitments for reinforcing democratic resilience across the continent.

Idowu urged Nigerians and Africans to join the effort, adding that the ultimate goal is for democracy to deliver tangible benefits to all citizens.

“It is our hope that democracy will work for all,” he said.