By Sani Idris-Abdulrahman

Abuja, June 12, 2025 (NAN) A Kaduna-based NGO, Beacon of Transformative and Inclusive Development Centre (BEACON) has called for the entrenchment of inclusive governance to reap the gains of democracy.

BEACON’s Executive Director, Mrs Abigail Olatunde, made the call in a statement in Kaduna on Thursday to commemorate the 2025 Democracy Day.

Olatunde, who congratulated Nigerians for the journey so far, toward a more democratic society, stressed the need for inclusive governance that leaves no one behind.

She pointed out that Nigeria has made undeniable progress since the return of democracy in 1999.

She added that the official recognition of June 12 as Nigeria’s Democracy Day stands as a powerful acknowledgment of the sacrifices made by citizens who demanded change.

“But the promise of democracy must extend beyond symbolism. It must translate into responsive leadership, equitable opportunities, and meaningful participation for all Nigerians.

“June 12 should not be seen as just a date on the calendar, but a day to remember those who fight for the nation’s democracy and the need to strengthen its tenets,” she said.

She added that the day also reminds Nigerians that the ongoing struggle for freedom, representation, and justice belongs to all and not a few.

According to her, democracy at its core, is about people and about participation, voice, accountability, and justice.

“However, true democracy remains incomplete when large segments of the population—women, youth, persons with disabilities, the poor, and rural dwellers are left on the fringes of governance and development.

“We, at BEACON, simply believe that development must be inclusive, and governance must be people-centred.

“We believe that democracy should not be defined solely by elections, but by the everyday opportunities citizens have to shape government policies and institutional decisions that affect their lives.

“Democracy is not a destination but a process that demands our constant vigilance, participation, and courage.”

She pledged that BEACON would continue to work with communities, civic actors, including public and private institutions to promote inclusive governance.

This, she said, would be achieved through capacity building for underrepresented groups, civic education in marginalised communities, and advocacy for policy reforms that prioritise equity and social justice.

She called on leaders at all levels to recommit to the values of transparency, inclusion, and accountability.

She equally urged civil society organisations to continue defending the civic space.

“We encourage every Nigerian, regardless of background, to claim their rightful place in the democratic process.

“As a nation, we must continue asking who is being left behind, whose voice is missing and whose vote does not count.

“A democracy that leaves no one behind is not just an aspiration — it is a responsibility.

“At BEACON, we remain steadfast in our mission to ensure that democracy works for everyone, especially those who have been excluded from its promise for far too long,” Olatunde said. (NAN)

Edited by Philip Yatai