Former President of Kosovo, Atifete Jahjaga, has urged Nigeria to strengthen its democratic culture by building truly independent institutions that uphold civic rights and withstand extremist ideologies.
Jahjaga made the call in Lagos on Wednesday while speaking at The Platform Nigeria 2025, an Independence Day forum hosted by Covenant Nation Church to mark Nigeria’s 65th anniversary.
She stated that for democracy to thrive, Africa’s most populous nation must embrace reform and resilience in its governance structures.
“We ought to aim to create institutions that are independent and show checks and balances, institutions that guarantee civic rights and liberties and remain resistant to extremist ideologies,” Jahjaga said.
“Once we achieve this, we can say democracy is at work. But until then, we must not get discouraged or give in to populist or nationalist forces that exploit emotions with empty promises.”
The former president also stressed inclusivity in governance, urging more women to take active roles in decision-making processes.
According to her, democratic growth in Nigeria requires both men and women working side by side to strengthen civic participation and defend liberties.
Nigeria needs independent institutions to safeguard civic rights – Ex-Kosovo president