Bukola Saraki,Former Senate President, has urged Nigerian youths to demand greater accountability, opportunities and improved governance from elected leaders as the country marks its 66th Independence anniversary.
Saraki, in an Independence Day message issued on Thursday, said young Nigerians who grew up under democracy have every right to expect more from the country and its leaders, particularly in areas affecting their education, employment, security and future.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s political history, the former Kwara State governor said the significance of democracy was more readily appreciated by citizens who experienced military rule and witnessed the country’s return to civilian government in 1999.
‘For those of us who lived through military rule, our return to democracy in 1999 meant a great deal. Simply being able to choose our leaders felt like a victory. Because it was,’ Saraki said.
He noted, however, that the expectations of younger Nigerians were shaped by a different experience, as many had never experienced military rule or the political uncertainty that preceded the return to civilian rule.
Saraki said the younger generation was therefore entitled to ask whether the democratic system was delivering tangible improvements to their everyday lives.
‘Imagine saying this to a young Nigerian today, one navigating university, national service, or years of looking for a job. They understand that democracy matters,’ Saraki stated. ‘They would just like to know when this democracy that we celebrate will begin to make a difference in their own lives.’
The former Senate President listed several pressing questions confronting young Nigerians, including whether they will complete their education on time, secure employment, live safely, and build fulfilling lives without feeling compelled to emigrate.
‘Can I finish school on time? Will I find work? Can I travel safely? Do I really have to leave my country to have a chance at the life that I want?’ Saraki quoted young Nigerians as asking.
Saraki argued that such concerns should not be interpreted as evidence that young Nigerians have lost faith in the nation, maintaining that demanding better living conditions is itself an expression of patriotism.
He said young Nigerians are increasingly aware of the country’s potential and the talent available across different sectors, but questioned why many continue to struggle to secure opportunities to thrive.
‘These are fair questions. And those of us who have held public office, myself included, owe young Nigerians better answers,’ he said. ‘I do not believe that any young Nigerian asking these questions loves the country less. Sometimes, loving your country means refusing to accept less than what you know it can be.’
The former Senate President urged young Nigerians to maintain high expectations of those seeking their votes, advising that these standards should shape the questions asked during campaigns and the performance demanded from elected officials.
Saraki also urged youths to remain engaged with governance beyond election periods, stressing that civic participation must extend past the ballot box.
‘Let that expectation shape how you vote, the questions you ask, and what you are prepared to accept from those you elect. And when the elections are over, keep paying attention,’ Saraki said.
Saraki noted that the 66th Independence anniversary should serve as an opportunity for political leaders to reflect on their obligations to the younger generation.
Saraki, who served as Senate President between 2015 and 2019, concluded his message by wishing Nigerians a happy Independence Day.
Nigeria celebrates its Independence Day annually on October 1 to commemorate the country’s independence from British colonial rule in 1960. The national holiday is marked with official ceremonies and cultural displays across the country.