Vice President Kashim Shettima has expressed concern over the challenges facing democracy in Africa, attributing its setbacks to pressures such as endemic poverty and insecurity across the continent.

Speaking at the National Conference on Strengthening Democracy in Nigeria, organized by the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy, and Development (Centre LSD) in Abuja, Shettima—represented by his Special Adviser on Political Issues, Hakeem Baba-Ahmed—highlighted the complexities undermining democratic progress.

“We live in a highly competitive world, where values compete for validation, and where the conduct of leaders often challenges the assumptions that democratically-elected officials adhere to the highest standards of morality and rule of law,” he stated.

Shettima emphasized Nigeria’s critical role as a leader in promoting democracy in Africa, calling for respect for national sovereignty while encouraging a return to democratic governance, as desired by citizens of the continent.

“Only the most critical scrutiny of our democratic assets and systems will ensure their survival and fulfillment of their promises. Democracy may be imperfect, but it remains superior to all other systems,” he said, adding that Nigeria would rise again and learn from its challenging past to lead the continent toward a better future.

The Vice President affirmed the administration’s commitment to strengthening democracy through economic reforms, community security, anti-corruption efforts, and free and fair elections.

Earlier in his remarks, Otive Igbuzor, founding Executive Director of the Centre LSD, stressed the need for electoral reforms to enhance leadership selection in Nigeria and Africa. He criticized the political landscape for being dominated by elites, which has alienated citizens from governance.

“We are fostering the development of political parties that are representative, open to internal democracy, and accountable to the people. Addressing these issues will provide Nigerians with viable leadership choices and governance,” Igbuzor said.

He urged a collaborative approach involving government institutions, civil society, the media, and citizens to restore confidence in democratic systems.

“The outcomes of this conference will offer actionable solutions to rebuild trust in our institutions, enhance transparency, and set a new standard of integrity for governance,” Igbuzor concluded.