12/06/2026
PRESS RELEASE
*DEMOCRACY DAY 2026: SPEAKER ABDULMALIK SARKIN-DAJI CALLS FOR UNITY, PEACE, GOOD GOVERNANCE, AND GREATER COMMITMENT TO NATION BUILDING*
The Speaker of the Niger State House of Assembly and Treasurer of the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria, Rt. Hon. Barr. Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji, has congratulated Nigerlites and Nigerians on the occasion of the 2026 Democracy Day celebration scheduled for Friday, June 12, 2026.
In his Democracy Day message, Rt. Hon. Sarkin-Daji noted that Nigeria has enjoyed an uninterrupted democratic process since 1999, a development that has brought significant progress and achievements across various sectors of the country.
According to him, while much has been achieved over the years, there is still a great deal of work to be done to further strengthen democratic institutions and improve the welfare of the people.
He stated that it would be unfair to compare Nigeria with countries such as the United States of America and other advanced democracies that have practised democratic governance for over one hundred, two hundred, and even three hundred years.
The Speaker expressed confidence that Nigeria’s democracy will continue to grow stronger and deliver greater benefits to citizens, provided both leaders and the people remain committed to the principles of good governance, accountability, and national development.
While acknowledging the challenges facing the country, he stressed that every Nigerian, regardless of status, position, or background, has a role to play in building a better nation. He called on citizens to remain steadfast, support their leaders through constructive engagement, and continue to pray for the peace, unity, and progress of the country.
Rt. Hon. Sarkin-Daji further emphasized that leadership is a sacred responsibility that demands dedication, commitment, and tangible results. He noted that leaders must always strive to leave behind positive legacies that their people can proudly identify with.
According to him, meaningful leadership is measured by the positive impact it has on the lives of the people and the lasting developmental projects and policies it leaves behind.
Speaking on the gains of democracy, the Speaker said Nigerians, particularly Nigerlites, have enjoyed greater participation in governance compared to the era of military rule. He explained that democracy has created opportunities for citizens, especially young people, to actively participate in leadership and decision-making processes.
He noted with satisfaction that the democratic system has given youths a stronger sense of belonging, enabling capable and qualified young people to occupy leadership positions at various levels of government.
According to him, unlike in the past when political participation was largely limited to older individuals, young and energetic Nigerians now have the opportunity to showcase their abilities and contribute meaningfully to governance and national development.
The Speaker cited Niger State as a clear example of youth inclusion in leadership, noting that the Farmer Governor of Niger State, Mohammed Umaru Bago, members of the National Assembly representing the state, and members of the Niger State House of Assembly are largely youthful, energetic, and committed to delivering democratic dividends to the people.
Rt. Hon. Sarkin-Daji also called on Nigerians to reject all forms of tribalism, nepotism, and divisive tendencies. He urged citizens to see themselves as one indivisible family, be their brothers’ keepers, and maintain peaceful coexistence regardless of ethnic, religious, or political differences.
He stressed that national unity remains a critical ingredient for sustainable development and urged Nigerians to continue contributing positively wherever they find themselves. He further reminded leaders that true leadership is reflected in the confidence, trust, and satisfaction of the people they serve.
The Speaker therefore appealed to Nigerlites and Nigerians to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and supportive of efforts aimed at promoting peace, unity, and development across the country. According to him, without peace, meaningful development cannot take place, and even where development exists, its benefits may not be fully felt by the people.
Rt. Hon. Barr. Abdulmalik Mohammed Sarkin-Daji prayed for lasting peace, stability, and prosperity in Niger State and Nigeria, expressing optimism that the coming years will usher in greater progress, unity, and development for all.
Happy Democracy Day to all Nigerlites and Nigerians.
Ruqayyah M. Tanko
Head of Department, Media and Public Relations Directorate
Niger State House of Assembly.
11/06/2026...
