As Nigeria joined the world in marking the International Day of Democracy, the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has warned that democracy must go beyond optics and deliver tangible outcomes for citizens.
Bukola Idowu, Executive Director of KDI, said in Abuja on Monday that the essence of democracy lies not in symbolic gestures but in whether leaders are held accountable and governance improves people’s lives.
He noted that economic hardship and insecurity continue to strain public patience, while disinformation and polarisation are eroding trust in institutions.
“Too many groups – women, young people, persons with disabilities, and other marginalised communities – still face barriers to participation,” Idowu said. “Civic space should be protected, not restricted.”
KDI stressed that democracy is a daily practice rooted in fair rules, accountability, and citizen empowerment, not just a ritual reserved for election days.
Yet the organisation argued that Nigeria’s democracy is not in inevitable decline, pointing to the resilience of citizens who continue to organise, fact-check, litigate, and innovate.
Idowu said KDI is working to strengthen election integrity, enhance transparency in political finance, expand civic education, and reform how public institutions communicate and deliver services.
“As part of this commitment,” he added, “KDI will host a side event at the UN General Assembly on 18 September, bringing together reformers and researchers to chart practical steps for strengthening democratic resilience across Africa.”